Adoption substance

Pronunciation
/ah-DOP-shun sub-stance/
Category
Behavior
Plural
Adoption substances

Definition

A term used in entomology and arachnology to describe substances secreted by some insects or arachnids that facilitate the adoption of individuals into colonies or families.

Etymology

From the Latin 'adopere', meaning 'to take possession of,' and 'substance', referring to the material secreted.

Example

Ants use adoption substances to incorporate new members into their colony.

Related Terms

Usage Notes

Adoption substances often have complex chemical compositions and play a critical role in social behavior in certain species.