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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Multifemale nests and social behavior in Euglossa melanotricha (Hymenoptera,Apidae, Euglossini)

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Author(s):
Andrade e Silva, Aline Candida Ribeiro [1] ; Nascimento, Fabio Santos [1]
Total Authors: 2
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, FFCLRP, Dept Biol, Lab Comportamento & Ecol Insetos Sociais, BR-14040901 Ribeirao Preto - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: JOURNAL OF HYMENOPTERA RESEARCH; v. 26, p. 1-16, 2012.
Web of Science Citations: 12
Abstract

The nesting biology and social behavior of the euglossine bee species Euglossa melanotricha was analyzed based on the monitoring of eight nests found in man-made cavities and transferred to observation boxes. Euglossa melanotricha females usually construct their nests in cavities in the ground, in buildings, or in mounds. In this study, we present new data on the nesting biology of E. melanotricha. The process of reactivation of nests was commonly observed with one to three females participating in the reactivation. The duration of the process of reactivation ranged from 10 to 78 days (n = 31) and were longer during the rainy season. Time spent (in days) for provisioning, oviposition and closing a single cell was higher in reactivations that occurred during the dry period. 151 emergences were observed (39 males and 112 females). 90 (80.3%) of the emerged females returned to the natal nest, but only 35(38.9%) remained and actively participated in the construction and provisioning of cells. The other 55 abandoned the nests after several days without performing any work in the nest. Matrifilial nest structure was regulated by dominance-subordinate aggressive behavior among females, where the dominant female laid almost all eggs. Task allocation was recognized by behavioral characteristics, namely, agonism and oophagy in cells oviposited by other females. Euglossa melanotricha is multivoltine and its nesting is asynchronous with respect to season. Our observations suggest a primitively eusocial organization. These observations of E. melanotricha provide valuable information for comparison with other species of Euglossa in an evolutionary context. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 10/10027-5 - Behavioural mediation, chemical signalisation and physiological aspects regulating the social organization in hymenopterans
Grantee:Fábio Santos do Nascimento
Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants