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A new interpretation of the frequency curves associated with ant polymorphism

  • Mémoires Originaux
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Summary

The frequency curves characterizing all stages in the phylogenetic development of ant polymorphism can be interpreted most simply on the basis of divergence of two size groups of larvae beyond a critical point in larval development. The degree of divergence, and with it the decrease of the medias, depends on the amount of development, or the rate of divergence, following the critical point. The frequency curves characterizing the more elementary stages of polymorphism can be explained on the basis of simple competition among larvae, providing that a fair degree of ovipository periodicity obtains. This interpretation is at present supported principally by inconclusive circumstantial evidence, and it is admitted that other explanations may be found to hold equally well.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. The Biological Laboratories. Harward University, USA

    E. O. Wilson

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  1. E. O. Wilson
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Wilson, E.O. A new interpretation of the frequency curves associated with ant polymorphism. Ins. Soc 1, 75–80 (1954). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02223154

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02223154

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