Abstract
An explanation of the regulation of drone production in honeybee ( Apis mellifera ) colonies is given. Its main element is the presumption that adult drones emit a longlasting pheromone which has an inhibitory effect upon drone rearing when its in-hive amount exceeds a certain level. Quantitative predictions implied by this explanation are derived by incorporating it into a mathematical model of drone production in nonswarming honeybee colonies in temperate zones. The predictions are shown to be in close agreement with observational data from colonies in western Europe and North America, which have radically different drone-production patterns. In addition, the production of a longlasting inhibitory chemical signal by the drones is shown to be reasonable from an evolutionary point of view in tropical as well as temperate areas.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
