| Publication Type: | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication: | 2006 |
| Authors: | V. H. Gonzalez, Smith-Pardo, A., Bogotá, G. |
| Journal: | Studies on Neotropical Fauna and Environment |
| Volume: | 41 |
| Start Page: | 197-208. |
| Type of Article: | Original article |
| Abstract: | We describe and illustrate the male, female, and pupa of two new species of Neocorynura from the Colombian Andes, and provide information on their nesting behavior, host plants and social organization. Nests of Neocorynura iguaquensis sp. nov. Smith-Pardo & Gonzalez and N. muiscae sp. nov. Smith-Pardo & Gonzalez were found in flat or vertical banks, and contained one to three adult females. The percentage of multi-female nests varied considerably from 8.3% to 40% of the total of dissected nests at different times in 2000 and 2003. The ovarian development, wing and mandibular wear of females in the nests with two or more females indicated that they were the offspring that remained in the nest before dispersal or a mother and a newly emerged daughter. Pollen taken from the nest cells and scopae of museum specimens showed that both species rely heavily on pollen of asteraceans and may be active year-round. Details on the nest architecture and comments on the phylogenetic placement of both species are also provided. Direct observations on the multi-female nests are required to determine whether or not such nests contain temporary assemblages or truly semisocial colonies. |