Trophallaxis
- Pronunciation
- /tro-fal-laks-iss/
- Category
- Behavior
- Singular
- Trophallaxis
- Plural
- Trophallaxes
Definition
The social behavior in which food or other fluids are passed from one individual to another within a social insect colony.
Etymology
Example
Trophallaxis plays an important role in honey bee colonies, allowing for efficient nutrient transfer between worker bees.
Related Terms
- Social behavior
- Food sharing
- Colony
Usage Notes
Trophallaxis is often observed in social insects like ants, bees, and termites.