Abstract
Wasps can synthesize chemical compounds called venom whose function is to overcome prey and assist in defense of the colonies. Geographic Parameters such as sex, age, the season of the year, and diet determined the composition of the venom location, genetics, environment. However, studies on the compositional variability of venom are still limited due to the difficulty in obtaining samples and the complexity of these substances. This work describes the use of the Fourier Transform Infrared Photoacoustic Spectroscopy (FTIR-PAS) to investigate inter- and intraspecific variability in the venom chemical composition (VCC) of the social wasp Polybia paulista (Von Ihering 1896) and the ant Ectatomma brunneum (Smith 1858). The results reveal significant differences in VCC among the ant and wasp, even for samples obtained from the same environment. The genetic component, therefore, seemed to be the predominant factor determining the compounds present. The findings also showed that exogenous factors, such as diet, could also be responsible for intraspecific differences, especially in wasps. The FTIR-PAS technique proved to be a reliable way of assessing intra- and interspecific differences in social Hymenoptera VCC.
Highlights
The Hymenoptera, one of the most significant orders of insects, is composed of wasps, bees, ants, and sawflies
It is possible to observe that in this region, the wasp venom has absorption intensity higher than the ant venom. This effect is an indication that the venom chemical composition of P. paulista wasp has in its composition aromatic rings in higher concentration than the venom of E. brunneum ant
Studies with social Hymenoptera have shown that genetic factors and age can be responsible for the venom chemical composition and some compounds are characteristic of particular species (Ferreira-Junior et al, 2010; Cologna et al, 2013)
Summary
The Hymenoptera, one of the most significant orders of insects, is composed of wasps, bees, ants, and sawflies Within this order, some individuals are eusocial, which have as essential characteristics the division of reproductive labor, cooperative parental care, and overlapping generations (Wilson, 1971). An essential characteristic of Hymenoptera, the Aculeata, is the presence of a sting apparatus that is used to inject venom into prey and enemies This sting apparatus, which contains a venom reservoir, is a modification of the ovipositor device from ancestral groups. Its primary function is to capture prey, but it has become effective in the intimidation of vertebrates It has acquired a significant defensive role, notably in social species (Macalintal & Starr, 1996)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 call
