Summary
InSchedorhinotermes lamanianus, size and cellular differentiation of the labial gland exhibit a caste-specific polymorphism. The acini of workers are composed of three distinct types of secretory cells, one of which is absent in soldiers and alates. The labial gland of workers releases a chemical signal for intraspecific communication. During the communal exploitation of a food source, labial gland secretion makes workers aggregate at gnawing sites where this signal is deposited. A newly developed bioassay is demonstrated.
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Kaib, M., Ziesmann, J. The labial gland in the termiteSchedorhinotermes lamanianus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae): Morphology and function during communal food exploitation. Ins. Soc 39, 373–384 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01240622
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01240622