The over reliance on, and widespread use of, synthetic insecticides has led to resistance, increased concerns about the long term environmental impacts, and public health issues (Smart et al 1994).

Helicoverpa spp remain the most important pest in the Australian cotton industry. They are resistant to most of the insecticides used by the industry.

The use of natural (non-synthetic) chemicals to influence insect behaviour is likely to be well known, in one way or another.