ISSN:
1573-1561
Keywords:
Colletes spp.
;
bees
;
Hymenoptera
;
Colletidae
;
Dufour's gland secretion
;
nest cell lining
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Notes:
Abstract The liquid secretion of the Dufour's gland in mated females comprises a mixture of macrocyclic lactones, straight chain mono- and dicarboxylic acids, together with trace amounts of di- and trihydroxy monocarboxylic acids and a series ofn-alkanes. Polymerization of the liquid to form the membranous nest cell lining, which also contains alanine and glutamic acid as major constituents, may be mediated by an enzyme from the thoracic salivary gland and voided via the mouth. The composition and structure of the cell linings are similar to those of Wigglesworth's “cuticulin.”
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00987667
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