Larval Anatomy of the Bee Tetragonula sapiens (Cockerell) (Meliponini); Further on the Larva of Melipona fallax Camargo and Pedro, with a Preliminary Characterization of Mature Larval Meliponini; and Analysis of Multipronged Spicules (Apoidea: Apidae)

Abstract

ABSTRACT The small (length less than 6 mm) postdefecating larva of Tetragonula (Tetragonula) sapiens (Cockerell) from the Huon Peninsula, Papua New Guinea is described and illustrated, the first representation of the immature stage for any member of this genus of stingless bees. A reexamination of the recently described larva of Melipona fallax Camargo and Pedro using a new technique reveals valuable insights regarding its integumental microstructures. On the basis of these findings and previously published accounts of larval representatives of five other genera (Melipona, Nogueirapis, Partamona, Plebeia, and Trigonisca), a preliminary description of the mature larva of the tribe Meliponini is presented. Multipronged spicules, recently discovered in meliponines, are investigated.