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J Chem Ecol

Title:		Chemical composition and efficacy of cephalic gland secretion ofArmitermes chagresi (Isoptera: Termitidae)
Author(s):		Traniello JF; Thorne BL; Prestwich GD;
Address:		"Department of Biology, Boston University, 02215, Boston, Massachusetts"
Journal Title:		J Chem Ecol
Year:		1984
Volume:		10
Issue:		3
Page Number:		531 - 543
DOI:		10.1007/BF00988098
ISSN/ISBN:		0098-0331 (Print) 0098-0331 (Linking)
Abstract:		"Soldiers of the neotropical humivorous termiteArmitermes chagresi have large ice-tong-like mandibles for mechanical defense and a moderate length nasus from which cephalic gland defensive secretions are discharged. Soldiers do not eject secretion, but ooze droplets which are held at the nasus tip by hairs. The chemical secretion is composed of C22-C26 macrocyclic lactones, including C24 and C26 and alpha- and beta-hydroxylated lactones, with C24 macrolides predominating. The cephalic gland secretion has no pheromonal properties and does not induce alarm or attraction in soldiers or workers. Upon application, the secretion repels and is irritating to ants, but does not appear to act as an antihealant. The defensive behavior and chemistry ofA. chagresi is discussed in light of termite ecology and evolution"
Keywords:
Notes:		"PubMed-not-MEDLINETraniello, J F Thorne, B L Prestwich, G D eng 1984/03/01 J Chem Ecol. 1984 Mar; 10(3):531-43. doi: 10.1007/BF00988098"