ISSN:
0739-4462
Keywords:
insect diets
;
worker ants
;
melanization
;
venom alkaloids
;
hydrocarbons
;
Chemistry
;
Food Science, Agricultural, Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Source:
Wiley InterScience Backfile Collection 1832-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Nonmelanized cuticle development was induced in workers of Solenopsis invicta by feeding them an insect-free diet. The nonmelanized workers weighed less and had smaller mean headwidths than workers from normal colonies. Although nonmelanized ant colonies appeared to function normally in the laboratory, their attempts at stinging were felt only as “pin pricks.” Chemical analysis of venom alkaloids and cuticular hydrocarbons indicated no qualitative differences between nonmelanized and normal workers. Tyrosine, an essential amino acid tanning precursor, was found in adequate quantities in the free amino acid pool of nonmelanized ants. The specific cause of the nonmelanized condition is not known.
Additional Material:
1 Ill.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/arch.940040403
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