Caste Differences in Polybia emaciata, a Mud-Nesting Eusocial Wasp (Hymenoptera: Vespidae), that Bear on Pre-Imaginal Determination but not Size Differences

Author(s)

Noll, Fernando B. ^[1] ; Taverna, Luis Gustavo ^[2] ; de Oliveira Lima, Alexandre Capelete ^{[2, 1]} ; Mateus, Sidnei ^[2]

Affiliation

^[1] UNESP, Inst Biociencias Letras & Ciencias Exatas, Depto Zool & Bot, BR-15054000 Sao Jose Do Rio Preto, SP - Brazil

^[2] USP, Fac Ciencias & Letras Ribeirao Preto, Depto Biol, BR-14014090 Ribeirao Preto, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Sociobiology; v. 53, n. 1, p. 189-204, 2009.
• Web of Science Citations: 1

Abstract

The Epiponini is a group of social wasps living in polygynic societies. The caste dimorphism varies from incipient to well distinct. Morphometric analyses on twelve body parts and ovarian development of Polybia emaciata Lucas 1879, were used to estimate the level of caste differentiation in seven colonies. Physiologic differences were found. Among queens the ovaries were inseminated and presented as highly developed; in intermediate females, ovaries were slightly developed and uninseminated, and for the workers the ovaries were not developed or inseminated. In addition, the coloration of the mesosoma and metasoma were darker in workers and intermediates. Morphometric analysis evidenced slight morphological differences. Even though body proportions were not enough to discriminate castes, the fifth sternite of the gaster had important characters that were able to differentiate queens from workers and intermediates. We propose that P. emaciata presents a case of pre-imaginal caste determination, which is not strictly based on size. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 07/08633-1 - Social interactions, foraging and biodiversity of neotropical social wasps.
• Grantee: Fernando Barbosa Noll
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants