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Chemistry and function of mandibular gland products of bees of the genusExoneura (Hymenoptera, Anthophoridae)

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Abstract

FemaleExoneura richardsoni, E. bicolor, andE. bicincta (Hymenoptera: Anthophoridae) release a pungent, staining liquid from their mandibular glands upon disturbance. This secretion is primarily composed of ethyl dodecanoate, with lesser amounts of homologous ethyl and methyl esters, salicylaldehyde, and 1,4-benzoquinone. The secretion elicits vigorous grooming when topically applied to antennae ofFormica ants. The shared, unique combination of mandibular gland lipids of these threeExoneura species supports their monophyletic classification, while the presence of salicylaldehyde may associateExoneura (Allodapini) withPithitis (Ceratinini).

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Author notes

  1. James H. Cane

    Present address: Division of Entomology and Parasitology, University of California, 94720, Berkeley, California

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Entomology, University of Kansas, 66045, Lawrence, Kansas

    James H. Cane & Charles D. Michener

Authors
  1. James H. Cane
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  2. Charles D. Michener
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Additional information

Contribution number 1842 from the Department of Entomology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas 66045.

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Cane, J.H., Michener, C.D. Chemistry and function of mandibular gland products of bees of the genusExoneura (Hymenoptera, Anthophoridae). J Chem Ecol 9, 1525–1531 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00988418

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00988418

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