Ancient Greek φέρω - "bearing" + ὁρμάω - "stirring, prompting."

Pheromones are biologically active substances secreted into the water by fish that determine the behaviour and physiological state of other fish of the same species by acting directly on them through chemoreceptors. Sex pheromones and alarm pheromones have been found in fish.

Pheromones are usually secreted by special glands and detected by chemoreceptors. Pheromones have a wide range of effects. Sex pheromones (sexual attractants) stimulate the maturation and behaviour of individuals of the opposite sex, ensuring their encounter and recognition. Fish also emit alarm pheromones.