Systematics of Cephalopods

Abstract

An intriguing feature of most hymenopteran venoms is that they display broad antimicrobial activity. In particular, the venoms of social Hymenoptera (ants, wasps, and bees) represent the most conspicuous source of antimicrobial secretions. In solitary and parasitic species, venom is used to immobilize or kill prey and to preserve them as stored food for their immature brood. In social species, venom is frequently also externalized both onto the cuticle and the nest surface. This indicates that venom use in Hymenoptera is not just restricted to hunting activities or to deter predators, but is also actively used as an externalized defensive agent, providing a first chemical barrier against microorganisms present in the environment. This chapter will discuss the importance and biological significance of venom as part of an external immune defense in Hymenoptera with special emphasis on social species. In addition ecological and environmental factors constraining the use of venom as external immune defense will be highlighted.