On Fri, 3 Apr 2009 08:14:11 -0400, Bill T <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> Wonder if it happens with other social insects?
> We demonstrate that parasitized workers of the bumblebee Bombus terrestris L. stay in the field
overnight rather than returning to their nest. This behaviour retards the development of the parasite
and reduces the chances of successful development. In choice experiments, parasitized foragers actively
seek out cold temperatures. This behaviour therefore enhances colony success by prolonging the life of
parasitized workers while at the same time reducing parasitoid fitness.
"Exploitation of cold temperature as defence against parasitoids in bumblebees"
CHRISTINE B. MÜLLER & PAUL SCHMID-HEMPEL
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