trophallaxis

zoology

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July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

Trophallaxis is the exchange of food or other substances between social insects, such as ants and termites. This behavior is crucial for communication and nutrient sharing within the colony. It can involve regurgitated food from the mouth or anus, and it plays a role in distributing nutrients and social signals throughout the colony. The term "trophallactic" describes anything related to this food exchange. This process is a key aspect of the complex social interactions observed in many insect societies.1234

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Hymenoptera
General features
Trophallaxis, or the mutual exchange of food between larvae and adults of bees, ants, and wasps, has been of special interest to hymenopterists. Hyperparasitism—the parasitic habit of one species upon another parasitic species—has also attracted attention. Polyembryony, the development of many individuals (as many as…
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Trophallaxis, or the mutual exchange of food between larvae and adults of bees, ants, and wasps, has been of special interest to hymenopterists. Hyperparasitism—the parasitic habit of one species upon another parasitic species—has also attracted attention. Polyembryony, the development of many individuals (as many as…
Read More

Hymenoptera
Social forms
Trophallaxis, or exchange of food between workers and larvae, is a further development.
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Trophallaxis, or exchange of food between workers and larvae, is a further development.
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