This may be a dumb question, but I'll ask anyway. What exactly is "black anise"?

When I research anise-based lures, I see "black anise" mentioned quite a bit in both liquid lures and paste/smear lures. I've only been exposed to chinese star anise. Can someone explain the significance?

Black anise (aniseed) is a plant of the carrot family, and star anise is a tropical plant related to magnolia vines.
They are unrelated. Both produce anethole, the main volatile compound that gives them their licorice smell.

Next question.

Do you think critters are attracted to the anise (licorice) smell for food or curiosity or something else? Is it desirable or is it just a loud carrying scent that gets their attention?

I've used lures with that odor or the oil for coons and weasels.