Abstract
Observations of variability in the phenotypic composition of honeybee colonies through time have led to ad hoc hypotheses concerning the distribution of spermatozoa in multiply mated honeybee queens. These hypotheses are not supported by available data. Serial sections of spermathecae from honeybee queens were examined by light microscopy. No obvious physical evidence was observed of agglomerations, aggregations, clumps, layers, or wads of spermatozoa within spermathecae within 24 h of insemination. A hypothesis is proposed explaining the occurrence of fluctuations of progeny phenotypes.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 182-184 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Experientia |
Volume | 40 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Feb 1 1984 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology