Diet‐induced nonmelanized cuticle in workers of the imported fire ant Solenopsis invicta buren

Abstract

AbstractNonmelanized 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.