Semiochemical Communication In Quran
Quran 27:17-18
Solomon’s forces of jinn, humans, and birds were rallied for him, perfectly organized, And when they came across a valley of ants, an ant warned, “O ants! Go quickly into your homes so Solomon and his armies do not crush you, unknowingly.
If you want to survive as an ant, you’d better get ready to make some noise. A new study shows that even ant pupae—a stage between larvae and adult—can communicate via sound, and that this communication can be crucial to their survival.
Reference: Shhh, the Ants Are Talking
Ants use semiochemicals extensively to “speak” or communicate with each other. Semiochemicals are chemicals that influence behavior or physiology, and in ants, they’re key to their social structure. These include pheromones (intraspecific signals) and other compounds like cuticular hydrocarbons. Ants rely on them for:
- Trail marking: Ants release pheromones from glands (e.g., Dufour’s or poison glands) to create trails to food or new nest sites. For example, Argentine ants use (Z)-9-hexadecenal as a trail pheromone.
- Alarm signaling: When threatened, ants emit alarm pheromones like 2-methyl-3-ethylpyrazine (in fire ants) to alert and recruit nestmates.
- Recognition: Cuticular hydrocarbons on their bodies act as a chemical ID, distinguishing colony members from outsiders.
- Coordination: Queens release pheromones to regulate worker behavior, like inhibiting reproduction in others.
Unlike human speech, this “language” is silent and chemical-based, detected via antennae. A single ant might not “say” much, but collectively, these signals create a complex communication network. For instance, a foraging ant lays a trail, others reinforce it, and the colony adapts, pretty efficient “talking” without words.
A semiochemical, from the Greek σημεῖον (semeion), meaning “signal”, is a chemical substance or mixture released by an organism that affects the behaviors of other individuals.[1] Semiochemical communication can be divided into two broad classes: communication between individuals of the same species (intraspecific) or communication between different species (interspecific).[2] It is usually used in the field of chemical ecology to encompass pheromones, allomones, kairomones, attractants and repellents.[1][3] Many insects, including parasitic insects, use semiochemicals. Pheromones are intraspecific signals that aid in finding mates, food and habitat resources, warning of enemies, and avoiding competition. Interspecific signals known as allomones and kairomones have similar functions.[4]
Reference: Semiochemical – Wikipedia
Additional Information
The Qur’an is not primarily a scientific textbook, but it provides signs and guidance that point to the wonders of the universe and creation. Its core purpose is to offer a comprehensive framework for how to live a righteous and purposeful life, guiding humanity in understanding why we are here and how to fulfill our role in this world. While the Qur’an speaks about the natural world and the universe, it does not delve deeply into scientific explanations. Instead, it encourages humans to observe, reflect, and explore the world around them. As the Qur’an mentions, humanity is urged to “Say, ‘Travel through the land and observe how He originated creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed, Allah is over all things competent. (Surah Ankabut, 29:20)” and contemplate the creation of the heavens and the earth, the cycles of nature, and the intricate balance of life. These reflections are meant to inspire curiosity and deepen our understanding of the world, leaving space for human discovery and scientific exploration. The Qur’an acknowledges the human capacity for knowledge and exploration, guiding us to seek wisdom through our own efforts and observation, with faith and reverence for the Creator.