Abstract
The alarm behaviour of the ant Formica rufibarbis was investigated by laboratory bioassays in which different exocrine glandular secretions were tested. This was done in order to identify glandular sources of the alarm pheromones involved. Experiments revealed that poison and mandibular glands play an important role in this context. Thus, F. rufibarbis seems to adopt a multisource alarm communication system, in which secretions from more than one glandular system are employed. However, a multicomponent alarm system, in which alarm communication is regulated by more than one substance (each with a different volatility), can not be excluded. Results are discussed also in the light of the important role this species plays in host-parasite relationships with other ants.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: 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.