Dufour's Gland
- Pronunciation
- /doo-FOOR'S gland/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Dufour's Gland
- Plural
- Dufour's Glands
Definition
A single gland found in many insects, particularly those belonging to the order Hymenoptera (e.g., bees and wasps), that is responsible for producing and releasing pheromones. It is located near the sting apparatus.
Etymology
Named after French entomologist Léon Dufour.
Example
The Dufour's gland of a queen honey bee produces pheromones that regulate colony behavior.