Functional Polygyny, Agonistic Interactions and Reproductive Dominance in the Neotropical Ant Odontomachus chelifer (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Ponerinae)

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0310.1992.tb00857.x
• Publication Date: 2010-05-09T18:06:12Z
• Authors: Flavia N. S. Mede...; Luciano E. Lopes; Paulo R. S. Moutinho; Paulo S. Oliveira; Bert Hölldobler
• Keywords: Agonistic behaviour; Polygyny; Alate; Dominance (genetics); Dominance hierarchy

Abstract Intracolony aggression among dealated queens of the ponerine ant Odontomachus chelifer leads to a dominance order within colony. Behavioral domination between entails an array stereotyped displays which may escalate from vigorous antennation bouts full mandibular strikes. In extreme situations dominant queen also suspend her subordinate opponent, who remains in pupal posture while being lifted up. As rule individual initiating contest normally wins it. Subordinate assume crouching at approach nestmate behind, fact suggesting that chemical cues play role establishment order. performances during contests and rank position different correlated well with data on egg production, ovarian development other parameters division labor Therefore, highly‐ranked laid more eggs, had better developed ovaries engaged less frequently foraging activities outside nest. Inseminated occupied top positions structure colony, accounted for most aggressive interactions recorded nest tubes. Aggression toward egg‐laying destruction newly‐laid eggs were conspicuous behavioral traits reproductive O. High ranking ones seen attacking alate females. The latter observed lay some them ovaries. Our results are accordance obtained elsewhere ants, provide first demonstration linked status functionally polygynous