REU: Behavior, Ecology and Genetics of an Apparently Communal Halicine Bee

本研究将调查一种明显的群居盐栖蜜蜂Lasioglossum (Chilalictus) erythrurum的社会组织。将采用三种方法：(1)实验室研究，包括直接观察观察巢中雌性的行为；(2)自然巢聚集的生态学研究；(3)相互作用的雌性之间遗传相关性的同工酶研究（群体内相关性）。这将是首次对任何明显的公有膜翅目昆虫进行此类研究。研究结果将为研究膜翅目昆虫原始社会组织的演化提供一个独特的机会。Dr. R. H. Crozier将为行为方面的研究和基因方面的合作提供必要的实验室空间。

This research will investigate the social organization of an apparently communal halictine bee, Lasioglossum (Chilalictus) erythrurum. Three approaches will be employed: (1) laboratory studies involving direct observation of behavior among females in observation nests, (2) ecological studies of natural nest aggregations, and (3) isozyme studies of the genetic relatedness among interacting females (intra-colony relatedness). This will be the first such study for any apparently communal hymenopteran. The results will provide a unique opportunity to study the evolution of alternative forms of primitive social organization in the Hymenoptera. Dr. R. H. Crozier will provide essential laboratory space for the behavioral aspects of the research and collaboration for the genetic aspects.