ISSN:
1573-1561
Keywords:
Crematogaster deformis
;
Hymenoptera
;
Myrmicinae
;
ant
;
defensive allomone
;
repellent
;
metapleural gland
;
3-propylphenol
;
3-pentylphenol
;
3,4-dihydro-8-hydroxy-3-methylisocoumarin
;
mellein
;
5-propylresorcinol
;
5-pentylresorcinol
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Notes:
Abstract The secretion of the hypertrophied metapleural gland of the antCrematogaster deformis contains a mixture of phenols, consisting mainly of 3-propylphenol, 3-pentylphenol, 3,4-dihydro-8-hydroxy-3-methylisocoumarin (mellein), 5-propylresorcinol, and 5-pentylresorcinol. The secretion is released, as a repellent, when the highly vulnerable petiolar-postpetiolar region of the abdomen is attacked by enemy ants. In addition, small amounts of the secretion are released regularly to serve as an antiseptic, which is considered the original function of the gland. The secretion also has some insecticidal properties.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF02027793
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