Mutualism: wasp keeps watchdogs to protect young

Curr Biol. 2008 Sep 23;18(18):R866-8. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2008.07.064.

Abstract

The adaptive value of acarinaria - specialized structures in some wasps and bees that harbour symbiotic mites - has long been elusive. A new study has now shown that the mites are actually beneficial to their host by actively defending it against parasitoids.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bees / parasitology
  • Bees / physiology*
  • Mites / pathogenicity
  • Mites / physiology
  • Social Behavior*
  • Symbiosis / physiology*
  • Wasps / parasitology
  • Wasps / physiology*