Publication Date:
2011-06-12
Description:
Efficient cooperation in eusocial insect colonies requires effective communication, and there is abundant evidence of non-volatile chemicals playing a role in regulating reproduction within colonies. In contrast, there have been fewer studies investigating the role of volatile chemicals. This study investigated the potential role of volatile chemicals in regulating queen reproduction either by directly inhibiting queen reproduction or by honestly signalling queen fecundity to workers. We tested this using multiple queen colonies of the ant ( Leptothorax acervorum ) from a functionally monogynous population where one queen monopolizes all reproduction. Nine colonies, each with an established laying queen, were split to produce two colony fragments—one containing the reproducing queen (group 1) and one containing only previously non-reproducing queens (group 2). Each group was separated by a fine wire mesh preventing physical contact, but allowing volatile chemical contact. In each group 2 fragment, we found that a single formerly non-reproductive queen commenced reproduction and that the rate of egg laying and maximum number of eggs recorded did not significantly differ between groups 1 and 2, results that do not support volatile chemicals as playing a role in regulating queen reproduction. Instead, our findings suggest that physical contact is necessary to maintain functional monogyny. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1-5 DOI 10.1007/s00114-011-0801-4 Authors Duncan J. Coston, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX UK Richard J. Gill, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX UK Robert L. Hammond, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Hull, HU6 7RX UK Journal Naturwissenschaften Online ISSN 1432-1904 Print ISSN 0028-1042
Print ISSN:
0028-1042
Electronic ISSN:
1432-1904
Topics:
Biology
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Chemistry and Pharmacology
,
Natural Sciences in General
