Recognition and Defensive Behavior of Nannotrigona testaceicornis Workers (Lepeletier, 1836) (Hymenoptera, Apidae) in Intra and Inter-colonial Bioassays
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Nannotrigona testaceicornis (Lepeletier, 1836) is a stingless bee with wide distribution in the Brazilian territory. Despite its importance in meliponiculture and pollination, there are still few behavioral studies related to the species. The aim of this work was to characterize the recognition and defense behaviors in intraspecific bioassays carried out in N. testaceicornis colonies. Intra and inter-colonial bioassays were carried out with six colonies from different locations. The number of occurrences of each behavioral act, latency measures, and duration of confrontations were quantified. An ethogram with eight behavioral acts and two categories was elaborated. The acceptance rate was significantly higher in intra-colonial confrontations and the rejection rate was higher in inter-colonial confrontations. The rejection process was significantly higher than the acceptance process, which may be related to the specific behavioral repertoire of each process. Results indicate that the presence of an intraspecific intruder triggers an aggressive response from guards positioned in the colony access tube.
期刊介绍:
SOCIOBIOLOGY publishes high quality articles that significantly contribute to the knowledge of Entomology, with emphasis on social insects. Articles previously submitted to other journals are not accepted. SOCIOBIOLOGY publishes original research papers and invited review articles on all aspects related to the biology, evolution and systematics of social and pre-social insects (Ants, Termites, Bees and Wasps). The journal is currently expanding its scope to incorporate the publication of articles dealing with other arthropods that exhibit sociality. Articles may cover a range of subjects such as ecology, ethology, morphology, population genetics, physiology, toxicology, reproduction, sociobiology, caste differentiation as well as economic impact and pest management.