These studies suggest that the queen pheromone blend is modulated by the reproductive status of the queens, and workers can detect these subtle differences and are more responsive to queens with higher reproductive potential. Workers were preferentially attracted to the mandibular gland extracts from queens with significantly more activated ovaries. There were no significant differences between semen- and saline-inseminated queens. Instrumentally inseminated queens were intermediate between virgins and naturally mated queens for both ovary activation and chemical profiles. ![]() Naturally mated queens had the most activated ovaries and the most distinct chemical profile in their mandibular glands. ![]() ![]() Virgin queens, naturally mated queens, and queens instrumentally inseminated with either semen or saline were collected 2 days after mating or insemination. Here, we investigate the role of mating and reproductive state on queen pheromone production and worker responses. The exact chemical blend produced by the queen differs between virgin and mated, laying queens. ![]() The mandibular glands of queen honeybees produce a pheromone that modulates many aspects of worker honeybee physiology and behavior and is critical for colony social organization.
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