In evolutionary terms, life is about reproduction. Yet, in some species, individuals forgo their
own reproduction to support the reproductive efforts of others. Social insect colonies for …

Structurally diverse queen pheromones and fertility signals regulate the reproductive
division of labor of social insects, such as ants, termites, some bees, and some wasps. The …

The sophisticated organization of eusocial insect societies is largely based on the regulation
of complex behaviors by hydrocarbon pheromones present on the cuticle. We used …

Social insects use cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) to convey different social signals,
including colony or nest identity. Despite extensive investigations, the exact source and …

Learning is a widespread phenomenon that allows behavioural flexibility when individuals
face new situations. However, learned information may lose its value over time. If such a …

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) have important communicative functions for ants, which use
CHC profiles to recognize mutualistic aphid partners. Aphid endosymbionts can influence …

Associative learning is of great importance to animals, as it enhances their ability to
navigate, forage, evade predation and improve fitness. Even though associative learning …

Cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs), the dominant fraction of the insects' epicuticle and the
primary barrier to desiccation, form the basis for a wide range of chemical signaling systems …

Regulation via interspecific communication is an important for the maintenance of many
mutualisms. However, mechanisms underlying the evolution of partner communication are …

Highlights•Some ome insects have mutualistic associations with ants by offering rewards to
ants.•Chemical communication contributes to the maintenance of mutualism.•The …