Primitively eusocial behavior observed in colonies of Augochlora amphitrite (Hymenoptera: Halictidae) reared in laboratory

Abstract

The present study provides evidence of primitively eusocialbehavior in Augochlora amphitrite (Schrottky). Bees were rearedin laboratory nests and observed throughout their nesting cycle.Introduced foundresses constructed nests solitarily, but upon theemergence of the first daughter their activities changed drastically,marking the onset of a social phase. The colonies presented twowell defined female castes according to their physiology, size andbehavior. Foundresses monopolized oviposition, displayed lowrates of nest construction, guarding, and pollen collection, theywere the individuals that initiated social interactions, and werestatistically larger. Daughter bees were smaller, with undevelopedovaries, performed most tasks at the nest and were the subordinateindividuals in social interactions.