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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.)

Age Polyethism in the Swarm-founding Wasp Metapolybia miltoni (Andena) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae; Polistinae, Epiponini)

Author(s):
Chavarria, L. [1] ; Noll, F. B. [2, 1]
Total Authors: 2
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo - Brazil
[2] Univ Estadual Paulista, Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 2
Document type: Journal article
Source: Sociobiology; v. 60, n. 2, p. 214-216, 2013.
Web of Science Citations: 1
Abstract

In Epiponini division of labor is associated with age polyethism and individual task specialization. We observed worker activities in three colonies of Metapoybia miltoni in Brazil. We analyzed differences of task allocation among age groups. Old workers tend to forage more than young, but age polyethism was less evident in other tasks. Age composition of population could be a determinant factor in task allocation. Workers are probably allocating to perform tasks according to colony needs, and not to individual's age. Considering age population in studies of division of labor could help to understand how colonies respond to different situations. (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