The deposition of anal excretions by Melipona favosa foragers (Apidae: Meliponinae): behavioural observations concerning the location of food sources

Abstract

Melipona favosa consistently deposited anal excretions while foraging. Anal depositions were released more frequently and by more bees on artificial food sources at a greater distance from the nest. Our hypothesis that these deposits serve as scent marks is supported by experimental evidence regarding the choices made by foraging bees arriving at food sources either with or without anal excretions. The clearly reduced visitation rate in the experimental situation without depositions indicates the importance of these cues during visitation of the food source.