Terpenes: The Most Common Language in the World

Terpenes are versatile chemical compounds used for communication within and across species. They are made of isoprene units and have diverse biological functions, including roles as vitamins and hormones. Terpenes are responsible for many plant scents and can act as pheromones. They play a crucial role in plant defense by attracting predators of herbivores or warning nearby plants. Terpenes also facilitate inter-species communication, as seen in interactions between fungi and bacteria. Research into terpenes could lead to agricultural innovations, offering alternatives to pesticides and enhancing crop health.

What are terpenes and how do they function in communication among species?

What role do terpenes play in the communication between different kingdoms of life?

Can you explain the significance of terpenes in plants and their interactions with pollinators?

Describe how terpenes can be used as a chemical cry for help in plants.

How might the study of terpenes impact agricultural practices in the future?