A primer on social insects

A primer on social insects free download

Bees, ants, wasps and termites (oh my!)

The social insects include the bees, ants, wasps and termites. They are called social because they assemble into large colonies of sterile workers that support the excessive reproduction of a relative, usually a parent. These insects present a conundrum, because their form of sociality involves foregoing reproduction to aid the reproduction of another: what is known as reproductive altruism. Because our theories of evolution are based upon successful reproduction, this is a puzzle. You will learn how scientists think they have solved the puzzle, and you will learn a lot of fascinating stuff about these insects along the way.