In plants these compounds may be involved as protection against pathogens. They also have major physiological effects in animals. This often occurs because of their structural similarity to neurotransmitters. Many amines also are found as amides in plants. These amides often have physiological effects in animals as well.
Several amines serve as synomones in pollination.
This is particularly true for plants in the Araceae and the Asclepiadaceae. They are usually involved in attracting flies for pollination. These aldehydes in turn can then react with amines to form Schiff base adducts. This compound is a plant growth stimulant. In this instance, it plays a role in the ant's interactions with fungi.