Einfluß der Temperatur auf den Atmungsstoffwechsel der Puppen von Formica polyctena (Hymenoptera, Insecta)

Abstract

The influence of temperature on the respiratory processes of pupae of males, females and workers of the red wood ant Formica polyctenaFoerst. has been investigated by means of the Warburg technique. At temperatures between 16° and 32° C oxygen consumption values increase more or less along a straight line. Q10-values are reduced correspondingly, and in sexuals values reach below 1.0 at temperatures above 32° or 34° C. The curve then bends down. Between 16° and 20° C, Q10-values are above 5. They are higher in sexuals than in workers. In addition to inactivation of enzymes at high temperatures, diffusion of oxygen is considered to limit respiration with increasing temperatures. The relation of metabolism versus body size of different castes has been analyzed using a double logarithmic plot. In sexual forms and workers weight proportionality of metabolism could be established. Respiratory quotients of different castes decline with decreasing temperature; they reach a maximum at the optimal temperature for development, i. e. 28° C. The highest respiratory quotients as well as the most pronounced declines have been observed in workers. Undercooling leads to respiratory quotients close to 0.5, revealing uncomplete oxidation at low temperatures. It is concluded that the activity of decarboxylases is strongly inhibited. © 1966 Biologischen Anstalt Helgoland.