section_path: Occurrence and synthesis
section_name: Occurrence and synthesis
paragraph_text: Occurrence and synthesis
  
  Dimethyl disulfide is widespread in nature. It is emitted by bacteria, fungi, plants, and animals. Along with dimethyl sulfide and dimethyl trisulfide, it has been confirmed as volatile compounds given off by the fly-attracting plant known as dead-horse arum (Helicodiceros muscivorus). These flies are attracted to the odor resembling that of fetid meat, and thus help pollinate this plant. The James Webb Space Telescope has possibly detected evidence of DMDS in the atmosphere of the exoplanet K2-18b.
  
  DMDS can be produced by the oxidation of methanethiol, e.g. with iodine: