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Recurrent evolution of dependent colony foundation across eusocial insects
Adam L Cronin1, Mathieu Molet, Claudie Doums
1Laboratoire Écologie & Évolution CNRS UMR 7625, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, 75 005 Paris, France. adamcronin@gmail.com
Annual Review of Entomology
|September 1, 2012
Summary
Dependent colony foundation (DCF) is a widespread strategy where eusocial insects, like ants and bees, start colonies cooperatively. This approach retains social benefits, unlike solitary queen founding.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Entomology
Background:
- Eusocial insects exhibit remarkable cooperation, but colony foundation is often solitary.
- Selection pressures may favor strategies that maintain social benefits during colony initiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution and diversity of dependent colony foundation (DCF) in social insects.
- To explore adaptations and consequences associated with DCF.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and anecdotal reports.
- Analysis of indirect evidence such as morphology, population genetics, and colony demographics.
Main Results:
- Dependent colony foundation (DCF) has evolved multiple times in ants, bees, and wasps.
- Adaptations include shifts in reproductive investment and evolution of wingless queens.
- DCF influences life history traits like invasiveness and parasite transmission.
Conclusions:
- DCF is a more diverse and widespread strategy than previously recognized.
- This strategy allows for the continuous retention of social benefits during colony establishment.
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