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Pokorny T, Ruther J. Cuticular Hydrocarbon Polymorphism in a Parasitoid Wasp. J Chem Ecol 2023; 49:36-45. [PMID: 36705801 PMCID: PMC9941234 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-022-01401-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) are major constituents of the cuticular lipid layer of insects. They serve not only as a barrier to desiccation, but often additionally mediate communication at close range. The compositions of the CHC profiles, i.e., the specific compounds and their relative amounts, usually differ between species. Additional intraspecific variability can be found between different populations, between colonies and castes of social insects, and between the sexes. Thus, such groups can often be distinguished based on distinctive compounds and/or specific compound ratios. The CHC profile may further be influenced by biotic and abiotic factors, which therefore can impact, e.g., nestmate recognition or mate choice. However, consistent intrasexual variation seems to be rare. Here, we investigated a case of intrasexual CHC variability within a single population of a parasitoid wasp. While wasps of both sexes produced the same set of compounds, the relative amounts of specific compound classes revealed the presence of intrasexual chemical phenotypes. This is, to our knowledge, the first report of three distinct female CHC profile patterns within a population of a solitary insect that uses CHCs for mate recognition. Additionally, male CHC profiles, while overall very similar, could be separated into two chemotypes by multivariate analysis. The study of species exhibiting such intraspecific and intrasexual CHC variation will advance our understanding of the effects of CHC variability on both, desiccation resistance and intraspecific communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Pokorny
- Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Joachim Ruther
- grid.7727.50000 0001 2190 5763Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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2
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Valterová I, Martinet B, Michez D, Rasmont P, Brasero N. Sexual attraction: a review of bumblebee male pheromones. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 74:233-250. [PMID: 31442206 DOI: 10.1515/znc-2019-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Males of many bumblebee species exhibit a conspicuous pre-mating behavior with two distinct behavioral components: scent marking and patrol flying. The marking pheromone is produced by the cephalic part of the labial gland (CLG). As far as is known, the CLG secretion is species specific, and it usually consists of two types of compounds: (i) straight-chain aliphatic alcohols, aldehydes or esters, and (ii) acyclic mono-, sesqui- and diterpenes (alcohols or acetates). Here, we summarize data from the literature reporting chemical composition of the CLG secretions of more than 80 bumblebee species. Similarities and differences within and between subgenera are discussed in the context of biosynthetic pathways and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irena Valterová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Flemingovo nám 2, CZ-166 10 Prague, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 21 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Baptiste Martinet
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute of Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 20, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Denis Michez
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute of Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 20, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Pierre Rasmont
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute of Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 20, 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Brasero
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute of Biosciences, University of Mons, Place du Parc 20, 7000 Mons, Belgium
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3
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Stökl J, Steiger S. Evolutionary origin of insect pheromones. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2017; 24:36-42. [PMID: 29208221 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Communication via chemical signals, that is, pheromones, is of pivotal importance for most insects. According to current evolutionary theory, insect pheromones originated either from extant precursor compounds being selected for information transfer or by the pheromone components exploiting a pre-existing sensory bias in the receiver. Here, we review the available experimental evidence for both hypotheses. Existing data indicate that most insect pheromones evolved from precursor compounds that were emitted as metabolic by-products or that previously had other non-communicative functions. Many studies have investigated cuticular hydrocarbons that have evolved a communicative function, although examples of pheromones exist that have arisen from defensive secretions, hormones or dietary compounds. We summarize and discuss the selective pressures shaping the pheromone during signal evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Stökl
- Institute of Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Gießen, Germany.
| | - Sandra Steiger
- Institute of Insect Biotechnology, Justus-Liebig-University Gießen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Gießen, Germany
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4
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Polidori C, Giordani I, Wurdack M, Tormos J, Asís JD, Schmitt T. Post-mating shift towards longer-chain cuticular hydrocarbons drastically reduces female attractiveness to males in a digger wasp. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2017; 100:119-127. [PMID: 28477982 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Revised: 04/30/2017] [Accepted: 05/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Females of most aculeate Hymenoptera mate only once and males are therefore under a strong competitive pressure which is expected to favour the evolution of rapid detection of virgin females. In several bee species, the cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) profile exhibited by virgin females elicits male copulation attempts. However, it is still unknown how widespread this type of sexual communication is within Aculeata. Here, we investigated the use of CHCs as mating cues in the digger wasp Stizus continuus, which belongs to the family (Crabronidae) from within bees arose. In field experiments, unmanipulated, recently emerged virgin female dummies promptly elicit male copulation attempts, whereas 1-4days old mated females dummies were still attractive but to a much lesser extent. In contrast, old (10-15days) mated female dummies did not attract males at all. After hexane-washing, attractiveness almost disappeared but could be achieved by adding CHC extracts from virgin females even on hexane-washed old mated females. Thus, the chemical base of recognition of females as appropriate mating partner by males is coded in their CHC profile. Accordingly, differences in CHC profiles can be detected between sexes, with males having larger amounts of alkenes and exclusive long-chain alkanes, and within females specially according to their mating status. Shortly after mating, almost all of the major hydrocarbons found on the cuticle of females undergo significant changes in their abundance, with a clear shift from short-chain to long-chain linear and methyl-branched alkanes. The timely detection of virgin females by males in S. continuus could be advantageous within the narrow period of female emergence, when male-male competition is strongest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Polidori
- Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales (ICAM), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Avenida Carlos III, s/n, 45071 Toledo, Spain; Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, C2-P3 Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Irene Giordani
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Animal Ecology, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Mareike Wurdack
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Animal Ecology, University of Freiburg, Germany; Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, University of Würzburg, Germany
| | - José Tormos
- Unidad de Zoología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Salamanca, Spain
| | - Josep D Asís
- Unidad de Zoología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Salamanca, Spain
| | - Thomas Schmitt
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Animal Ecology, University of Freiburg, Germany; Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, University of Würzburg, Germany
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5
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Weiss K, Herzner G, Strohm E. Sexual selection and the evolution of male pheromone glands in philanthine wasps (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae). BMC Evol Biol 2017; 17:128. [PMID: 28587589 PMCID: PMC5461632 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-017-0963-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexual selection is thought to promote evolutionary changes and diversification. However, the impact of sexual selection in relation to other selective forces is difficult to evaluate. Male digger wasps of the tribe Philanthini (Hymenoptera, Philanthinae) scent mark territories to attract receptive females. Consequently, the organs for production and storage of the marking secretion, the mandibular gland (MG) and the postpharyngeal gland (PPG), are subject to sexual selection. In female Philanthini, these glands are most likely solely subject to natural selection and show very little morphological diversity. According to the hypothesis that sexual selection drives interspecific diversity, we predicted that the MG and PPG show higher interspecific variation in males than in females. Using histological methods, 3D-reconstructions, and multivariate statistical analysis of morphological characters, we conducted a comparative analysis of the MG and the PPG in males of 30 species of Philanthini and three species of the Cercerini and Aphilanthopsini, two related tribes within the Philanthinae. Results We found substantial interspecific diversity in gland morphology with regard to gland incidence, size, shape and the type of associated secretory cells. Overall there was a phylogenetic trend: Ensuing from the large MGs and small PPGs of male Cercerini and Aphilanthopsini, the size and complexity of the MG was reduced in male Philanthini, while their PPG became considerably enlarged, substantially more complex, and associated with an apparently novel type of secretory cells. In some clades of the Philanthini the MG was even lost and entirely replaced by the PPG. However, several species showed reversals of and exceptions from this trend. Head gland morphology was significantly more diverse among male than among female Philanthinae. Conclusion Our results show considerable variation in male head glands including the loss of an entire gland system and the evolution of a novel kind of secretory cells, confirming the prediction that interspecific diversity in head gland morphology is higher in male than in female Philanthini. We discuss possible causes for the remarkable evolutionary changes in males and we conclude that this high diversity has been caused by sexual selection. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12862-017-0963-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Weiss
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gudrun Herzner
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Erhard Strohm
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, 93053, Regensburg, Germany.
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Stökl J, Herzner G. Morphology and ultrastructure of the allomone and sex-pheromone producing mandibular gland of the parasitoid wasp Leptopilina heterotoma (Hymenoptera: Figitidae). ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2016; 45:333-340. [PMID: 27349419 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Chemical communication by the parasitoid wasp Leptopilina heterotoma is based largely on (-)-iridomyrmecin. The female wasps use (-)-iridomyrmecin as a defensive allomone, a chemical cue to avoid competition with con- and heterospecific females, and as a major component of their sex pheromone to attract males. Males of L. heterotoma produce (+)-isoiridomyrmecin, which is also used for chemical defense. In this study we show that females and males of L. heterotoma produce the iridomyrmecins in a pair of mandibular glands. Each gland consists of a secretory part composed of class 3 gland cells and their accompanying duct cells, as well as a reservoir bordered by a thin intima. The gland discharges between the mandible base and the clypeus. Males have considerably smaller glands than females, which corresponds to the lower amount of iridomyrmecins produced by males. Chemical analyses of the mandibular gland contents showed that the gland of females contained mainly (-)-iridomyrmecin, as well as low amounts of the other previously described iridoid pheromone compounds, while the glands of males contained only (+)-isoiridomyrmecin. The morphology and sizes of the mandibular glands of males and females of L. heterotoma have evolved to the multi-functional use of iridomyrmecin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Stökl
- Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Germany.
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7
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Austel N, Reinecke A, Björkman C, Hilker M, Meiners T. Phenotypic plasticity in a willow leaf beetle depends on host plant species: release and recognition of beetle odors. Chem Senses 2014; 40:109-24. [PMID: 25537016 DOI: 10.1093/chemse/bju065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggregation behavior of herbivorous insects is mediated by a wide range of biotic and abiotic factors. It has been suggested that aggregation behavior of the blue willow leaf beetle Phratora vulgatissima is mediated by both host plant odor and by odor released by the beetles. Previous studies show that the beetles respond to plant odors according to their prior host plant experiences. Here, we analyzed the effect of the host plant species on odor released and perceived by adult P. vulgatissima. The major difference between the odor of beetles feeding on salicin-rich and salicin-poor host plants was the presence of salicylaldehyde in the odor of the former, where both males and females released this compound. Electrophysiological studies showed that the intensity of responses to single components of odor released by beetles was sex specific and dependent on the host plant species with which the beetles were fed. Finally, behavioral studies revealed that males feeding on salicin-rich willows were attracted by salicylaldehyde, whereas females did not respond behaviorally to this compound, despite showing clear antennal responses to it. Finally, the ecological relevance of the influence of a host plant species on the plasticity of beetle odor chemistry, perception, and behavior is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Austel
- Freie Universitaet Berlin, Dahlem Centre of Plant Sciences, Institute of Biology, Haderslebener Straße 9, 12163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Reinecke
- Department of Neuroethology, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knöll-Straße 8, 07745 Jena, Germany, Present address: Department of Behavioural Ecology and Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Eberhard-Gwinner-Straße 4, 82319 Seewiesen, Germany
| | - Christer Björkman
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7044, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden and
| | - Monika Hilker
- Freie Universitaet Berlin, Dahlem Centre of Plant Sciences, Institute of Biology, Haderslebener Straße 9, 12163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Torsten Meiners
- Freie Universitaet Berlin, Dahlem Centre of Plant Sciences, Institute of Biology, Haderslebener Straße 9, 12163 Berlin, Germany, Department of Chemical Biology, Helmholtz-Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffen-Straße 7, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany
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8
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Steiger S, Stökl J. The Role of Sexual Selection in the Evolution of Chemical Signals in Insects. INSECTS 2014; 5:423-38. [PMID: 26462692 PMCID: PMC4592599 DOI: 10.3390/insects5020423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Chemical communication is the most ancient and widespread form of communication. Yet we are only beginning to grasp the complexity of chemical signals and the role they play in sexual selection. Focusing on insects, we review here the recent progress in the field of olfactory-based sexual selection. We will show that there is mounting empirical evidence that sexual selection affects the evolution of chemical traits, but form and strength of selection differ between species. Studies indicate that some chemical signals are expressed in relation to an individual's condition and depend, for example, on age, immunocompetence, fertility, body size or degree of inbreeding. Males or females might benefit by choosing based on those traits, gaining resources or "good genes". Other chemical traits appear to reliably reflect an individual's underlying genotype and are suitable to choose a mating partner that matches best the own genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Steiger
- Institute of Experimental Ecology, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany.
| | - Johannes Stökl
- Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
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9
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Herzner G, Kaltenpoth M, Poettinger T, Weiss K, Koedam D, Kroiss J, Strohm E. Morphology, chemistry and function of the postpharyngeal gland in the South American digger wasps Trachypus boharti and Trachypus elongatus. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82780. [PMID: 24324830 PMCID: PMC3855771 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbes pose severe threats to animals as competitors or pathogens and strongly affect the evolution of life history traits like parental care. Females of the European beewolf Philanthus triangulum, a solitary digger wasp, provision their offspring with paralyzed honeybees and embalm them with the secretion from large postpharyngeal glands (PPG) that contain mainly unsaturated hydrocarbons. This coating changes the physico-chemical properties of the prey surface, causes a reduction of water condensation and retards growth of mold fungi. Here we examined the closely related South American genus Trachypus, which shows a life-history similar to Philanthus. We investigated whether Trachypus spp. also possess PPGs and embalm larval provisions. Using histological methods and 3D reconstructions we show that Trachypus boharti and T. elongatus possess PPGs that are similar to P. triangulum but somewhat smaller. The ultrastructure of the gland epithelium suggests that the gland content is at least partly sequestered from the hemolymph. Chemical analyses using gas chromatography / mass spectrometry revealed that both the cuticle and PPGs of Trachypus contain mainly unsaturated long-chain hydrocarbons. The gland of T. boharti additionally contains long-chain ketones. The hydrocarbons from the PPG of T. elongatus occurred on prey bees excavated from nests in the field but not on conspecific control bees. While the embalming only slightly elevated the amount of hydrocarbons on prey bees, the proportion of unsaturated hydrocarbons, which is crucial for the antifungal effect, was significantly increased. The Trachypus species under study possess PPGs that are very similar to the PPG of P. triangulum with regard to morphology, ultrastructure and chemistry. Moreover, we provide clear evidence that T. elongatus females embalm their prey, presumably as a means of prey preservation. The observed differences among Trachypus and Philanthus in gland size and prey embalming may have evolved in response to divergent ecological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gudrun Herzner
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Institute for Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Martin Kaltenpoth
- Research Group Insect Symbiosis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Theodor Poettinger
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Institute for Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Weiss
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Institute for Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Dirk Koedam
- Department of Animal Sciences, Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region, Mossoro, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
| | - Johannes Kroiss
- Research Group Insect Symbiosis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Erhard Strohm
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Institute for Zoology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Stahr C, Svatoš A, Seidelmann K. Chemical Identification, Emission Pattern and Function of Male-Specific Pheromones Released by a Rarely Swarming Locust, Schistocerca americana. J Chem Ecol 2012; 39:15-27. [DOI: 10.1007/s10886-012-0233-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Revised: 11/26/2012] [Accepted: 12/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Herzner G, Ruther J, Goller S, Schulz S, Goettler W, Strohm E. Structure, chemical composition and putative function of the postpharyngeal gland of the emerald cockroach wasp, Ampulex compressa (Hymenoptera, Ampulicidae). ZOOLOGY 2011; 114:36-45. [PMID: 21256725 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2010.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2010] [Revised: 10/05/2010] [Accepted: 10/12/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The postpharyngeal gland (PPG) plays a major role in the social integration of ant colonies. It had been thought to be restricted to ants but was recently also described for a solitary wasp, the European beewolf (Philanthus triangulum). This finding posed the question whether the gland has evolved independently in the two taxa or has been inherited from a common ancestor and is hence homologous. The latter alternative would be supported if a PPG was found in more basal taxa. Therefore, we examined a species at the base of the Apoidea, the solitary ampulicid wasp Ampulex compressa, for the existence of a PPG. Both sexes of this species possess a cephalic gland that branches off the posterior part of the pharynx, is lined by a cuticular intima and surrounded by a monolayered epithelium with the epithelial cells bearing long hairs. Most of these morphological characteristics conform to those of the PPG of ants and beewolves. Chemical analysis of the gland content revealed that it contains mainly hydrocarbons and that there is a congruence of the pattern of hydrocarbons in the gland, on the cuticle, and in the hemolymph, as has also been reported for both ants and beewolves. Based on these morphological and chemical results we propose that the newly described cephalic gland is a PPG and discuss its possible function in A. compressa. The present study supports the view of a homologous origin of the PPG in the aculeate Hymenoptera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gudrun Herzner
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Institute of Zoology, University of Regensburg, Universitätsstr. 31, D-93040 Regensburg, Germany.
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12
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Steiger S, Schmitt T, Schaefer HM. The origin and dynamic evolution of chemical information transfer. Proc Biol Sci 2010; 278:970-9. [PMID: 21177681 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2010.2285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Although chemical communication is the most widespread form of communication, its evolution and diversity are not well understood. By integrating studies of a wide range of terrestrial plants and animals, we show that many chemicals are emitted, which can unintentionally provide information (cues) and, therefore, act as direct precursors for the evolution of intentional communication (signals). Depending on the content, design and the original function of the cue, there are predictable ways that selection can enhance the communicative function of chemicals. We review recent progress on how efficacy-based selection by receivers leads to distinct evolutionary trajectories of chemical communication. Because the original function of a cue may channel but also constrain the evolution of functional communication, we show that a broad perspective on multiple selective pressures acting upon chemicals provides important insights into the origin and dynamic evolution of chemical information transfer. Finally, we argue that integrating chemical ecology into communication theory may significantly enhance our understanding of the evolution, the design and the content of signals in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Steiger
- School of Biological Sciences, Behavior, Ecology, Evolution and Systematics Section, Illinois State University, Normal Il 61790-4120, USA.
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13
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Strohm E, Kaltenpoth M, Herzner G. Is the postpharyngeal gland of a solitary digger wasp homologous to ants? Evidence from chemistry and physiology. INSECTES SOCIAUX 2010; 57:285-291. [PMID: 20651903 PMCID: PMC2886088 DOI: 10.1007/s00040-010-0083-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2009] [Revised: 02/04/2010] [Accepted: 02/08/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The postpharyngeal gland (PPG) was thought to be restricted to ants where it serves a crucial function in the generation of the colony odour. Recently, head glands that closely resemble the PPG of ants were discovered in females of a solitary digger wasp, the European beewolf. The function of this gland necessarily differs from ants: beewolf females apply the secretion of their PPG onto the bodies of paralysed honeybees that serve as larval provisions in order to delay fungus growth. Since ants and digger wasps are not closely related, the occurrence of this gland in these two taxa might either be due to convergent evolution or it is a homologous organ inherited from a common ancestor. Here we test the hypothesis that the PPGs of both taxa are homologous by comparing characteristics of chemical composition and physiology of the PPG of beewolves and ants. Based on reported characteristics of the PPG content of ants, we tested three predictions that were all met. First, the PPG of beewolves contained mainly long-chain hydrocarbons and very few compounds with functional groups. Second, the composition of hydrocarbons in the beewolf PPG was similar to that of the hemolymph. Taking the structure of the gland epithelium and the huge requirements of beewolf females for gland secretion into account this result suggests that the content of the PPG is also sequestered from the hemolymph in beewolves. Third, the chemical composition of the PPG and the cuticle was similar in beewolves since cuticular hydrocarbons derive either from the hemolymph or the PPG. Taking the considerable morphological similarities into account, our results support the hypothesis of a homologous origin of the PPG in beewolves and ants.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Strohm
- Department of Zoology, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
| | - M. Kaltenpoth
- Department of Zoology, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
- Present Address: Research Group Insect Symbiosis, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Hans-Knoell-Str. 8, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - G. Herzner
- Department of Zoology, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany
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14
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Male territoriality and mating system in the European beewolf Philanthus triangulum F. (Hymenoptera: Crabronidae): evidence for a “hotspot” lek polygyny. J ETHOL 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s10164-009-0185-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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15
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Mechanism and behavioral context of male sex pheromone release in Nasonia vitripennis. J Chem Ecol 2009; 35:416-21. [PMID: 19390897 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-009-9624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2009] [Revised: 03/27/2009] [Accepted: 04/01/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Males of the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) attract virgin females by releasing a sex pheromone composed of (4R,5R)- and (4R,5S)-5-hydroxy-4-decanolide (HDL). The pheromone is biosynthesized in the rectal vesicle of males. In the present study, we investigated the mechanism and behavioral context of pheromone release, and determined the range of activity and the longevity of the chemical signal. Our data show that the sex pheromone of N. vitripennis is substrate-borne and is deposited on surfaces by dabbing movements of the abdominal tip, a behavior previously described in N. vitripennis males as 'abdomen dipping'. Chemical markings deposited by a single male were highly attractive to virgin females. Chemical analyses revealed the presence of HDL in surface washings of marked areas, and HDL amounts correlated with male marking activity. Pheromone deposition occurred spontaneously without any additional cues being present, but marking intensity increased greatly after copulation or after a single contact with a virgin female. In contrast, marking intensity was not influenced by the presence of host puparia. Male pheromone deposits were perceived by females in a still-air olfactometer at distances of up to 4.5 cm and remained attractive for at least 2 h. The function of the substrate-borne sex pheromone is discussed with respect to the mating system of N. vitripennis.
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Goettler W, Strohm E. Mandibular glands of male European beewolves, Philanthus triangulum (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae). ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2008; 37:363-371. [PMID: 18394960 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2008.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2007] [Accepted: 01/29/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Males of a solitary digger wasp, the European beewolf, Philanthus triangulum, possess large mandibular glands that have been reported to produce a scent marking pheromone. We analysed the morphology and ultrastructure of these glands using light microscopy as well as scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The paired glands are located laterally in the head and each side consists of a larger and a smaller part. Both parts possess a collecting duct each with distinct openings at the mandible base. However, the collecting duct of the larger part is additionally connected to the pharynx through a lateral extension. The collecting ducts are bordered by a monolayered epithelium lined with cuticle that exhibits conspicuous ramified protuberances. About 1400 acini consisting of class 3 gland cells surround the ducts and are connected to them through conducting canals. The main components in the cytoplasm of these gland cells are mitochondria, well-developed smooth endoplasmatic reticulum, and electron lucent vesicles suggesting a high secretory activity. The connection between the large gland parts and the pharynx suggests that the secretion of the mandibular glands might not only be delivered directly onto the mandibles but might also be transported to and stored in the postpharyngeal gland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Goettler
- Department of Zoology, University of Regensburg, D-93040 Regensburg, Germany.
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Strohm E, Herzner G, Kaltenpoth M, Boland W, Schreier P, Geiselhardt S, Peschke K, Schmitt T. The chemistry of the postpharyngeal gland of female European beewolves. J Chem Ecol 2008; 34:575-83. [PMID: 18415061 PMCID: PMC2373416 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-008-9447-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2007] [Revised: 01/31/2008] [Accepted: 02/08/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Females of the European beewolf, Philanthus triangulum, possess a large glove-shaped gland in the head, the postpharyngeal gland (PPG). They apply the content of the PPG to their prey, paralyzed honeybees, where it delays fungal infestation. Here, we describe the chemical composition of the gland by using combined GC-MS, GC-FTIR, and derivatization. The PPG of beewolves contains mainly long-chain unsaturated hydrocarbons (C23-C33), lower amounts of saturated hydrocarbons (C14-C33), and minor amounts of methyl-branched hydrocarbons (C17-C31). Additionally, the hexane-soluble gland content is comprised of small amounts of an unsaturated C25 alcohol, an unknown sesquiterpene, an octadecenylmethylester, and several long-chain saturated (C25, C27) and unsaturated (C23-C27) ketones, some of which have not yet been reported as natural products. Surprisingly, we found a dimorphism with regard to the major component of the PPG with some females having (Z)-9-pentacosene, whereas others have (Z)-9-heptacosene as their predominant component. The biological relevance of the compounds for the prevention of fungal growth on the prey and the significance of the chemical dimorphism are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erhard Strohm
- Department of Zoology, University of Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg, Germany.
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Kaltenpoth M, Kroiss J, Strohm E. The odor of origin: kinship and geographical distance are reflected in the marking pheromone of male beewolves (Philanthus triangulum F., Hymenoptera, Crabronidae). BMC Ecol 2007; 7:11. [PMID: 17927833 PMCID: PMC2096619 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6785-7-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2007] [Accepted: 10/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pheromones play an important role for mate finding and courtship in many insects. In species where males are the signaling sex, females are expected to choose among potential mates with regard to the emitter's quality and/or genetic compatibility. One important aspect is the balance between negative and positive effects of in- vs. outbreeding. In the present study, we aimed to assess the potential of the territory marking pheromone of European beewolves as an indicator for genetic compatibility in the context of female choice. RESULTS We analyzed the sex pheromone composition of male European beewolves (Philanthus triangulum F., Hymenoptera, Crabronidae) from eight different locations across Central Europe (six in Germany, one in England, and one in Italy). The pheromone constitutes a complex blend of various long-chain hydrocarbons (alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, ketones, and a carbon acid). We demonstrate that pheromone composition differs significantly among distant populations (regional scale), among subpopulations (local scale) and between families within subpopulations. The differences in the pheromone blend are positively correlated with geographical distances as might be expected according to an isolation-by-distance model. On a local scale, family membership has a larger effect on pheromone composition than subpopulation affiliation, while the reverse is true for the regional scale. CONCLUSION Our results show that male pheromones can contain information on both kinship and geographical origin that may be used by females to choose adaptively among potential mates on the basis of their genetic distance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Kaltenpoth
- University of Würzburg, Department for Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, Am Hubland, 97074 Würzburg, Germany.
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