The alternative Pharaoh approach: stingless bees mummify beetle parasites
alive
http://www.springerlink.com/content/v6n2t6516770t455/?p=0e1106b7a74a4e79b5004e7502405dcd&pi=3

Abstract  Workers from social insect colonies use different defence
strategies to combat invaders. Nevertheless, some parasitic species are able
to bypass colony defences. In particular, some beetle nest invaders cannot
be killed or removed by workers of social bees, thus creating the need for
alternative social defence strategies to ensure colony survival. Here we
show, using diagnostic radioentomology, that stingless bee workers (*Trigona
carbonaria*) immediately mummify invading adult small hive beetles (*Aethina
tumida*) alive by coating them with a mixture of resin, wax and mud, thereby
preventing severe damage to the colony. In sharp contrast to the responses
of honeybee and bumblebee colonies, the rapid live mummification strategy of
*T. carbonaria* effectively prevents beetle advancements and removes their
ability to reproduce. The convergent evolution of mummification in stingless
bees and encapsulation in honeybees is another striking example of
co-evolution between insect societies and their parasites.



-- 
Juanse Barros J.
APIZUR S.A.
Carrera 695
Gorbea - CHILE
+56-45-271693
08-3613310
http://apiaraucania.blogspot.com/
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