Abstract
To evaluate the contribution of the setaceous membrane of the worker to the defensive behaviour of a bee colony, we studied its fine structure and the effect of alarm pheromones present on the membrane surface on the reaction of guards. Groups of guards at the hive entrances displayed defence behaviour when stimulated with volatiles from the setaceous membranes. Transmission electron microscopy sections of the setaceous membrane did not reveal any structure characteristic of an exocrine gland, in contrast to the sting sheaths or the Koschewnikow glands. Both surfaces of the membrane are abundantly covered with setae, which can considerably increase the general surface of the membrane and thus are suited for a quick discharge of alarm pheromones. The setaceous membrane serves only as a platform to release the alarm pheromones originating from the glandular part of the sting sheaths and the Koschewnikow glands.
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