beewolf white substance (IMAGE)
Caption
Mutual protection: The white substance that female beewolves of the genus Philanthus secrete into the brood cell via their antennae contains symbiotic bacteria that produce antibiotics to protect the beewolf offspring from pathogens. Beewolf eggs protect themselves and their food supply from microbial competitors by releasing toxic nitric oxide into the brood cell, which effectively kills germs. Symbionts are safe from the toxic gas thanks to hydrocarbons in the white antennal gland secretion, which provide a protective shield. This way, the symbionts are preserved for the larvae, which spin them into their cocoon for protection against detrimental microbes during hibernation.
Credit
Erhard Strohm, University of Regensburg
Usage Restrictions
Credit must be given to the creator. Adaptations must be shared under the same terms.
License
CC BY-SA