Viral influence on chemical communication in eusocial insects: insights and emerging research priorities

Chemical communication in eusocial insects is crucial for colony survival and adaptation to diverse environmental conditions, contributing significantly to their evolutionary success. Pheromones, produced mainly by exocrine glands, serve as the primary means of communication among colony members. They coordinate complex social behaviors, including foraging, queen recognition, brood care, alarm signaling, and colony defense. Proper pheromone function is therefore essential for maintaining colony cohesion and efficiency. However, pathogens, particularly viruses, can influence pheromone-mediated communication through 2 main mechanisms: by altering pheromone production or by impairing pheromone perception. The impacts of viruses on exocrine glands and pheromone production have been well documented in several nonsocial insect species. Although evidence is growing for the effects of viruses on pheromone-mediated behaviors in eusocial insects, the underlying mechanisms linking viruses and pheromone signaling remain poorly understood. Here, we review current knowledge on how viral infections influence chemical communication in 2 ecologically important, eusocial insects: the honey bee (Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758), a nectar and pollen feeder, valued for its pollination services and honey production, and the fire ant (Solenopsis invicta Buren, 1972), an omnivore and notorious invasive pest. We further explore the ecological implications of virus-eusocial insect interactions and discuss their consequences for pollinator and pest management. Additionally, we identify knowledge gaps and highlight future research directions that could enhance our understanding of virus-pheromone dependencies. By examining these complex interactions through a chemical ecology perspective, we aim to advance the understanding of viral ecology and contribute to the development of management strategies that improve honey bee health and enable sustainable fire ant control.