Juvenile hormone modulates hydrocarbon expression and reproduction in the german wasp Vespula germanica

Juvenile hormone (JH) affects multiple physiological traits in insects. In social insects, besides development, JH has been demonstrated to influence caste determination and the production of chemical compounds. wasps, triggers behavioral maturation, gonadotropic effects, hydrocarbon modulation. Here, we investigated whether displays same function fertility cue females German wasp Vespula germanica , previously shown related species vulgaris. By experimentally treating workers with JH-analog, an anti-JH, acetone solvent control, tested modulates cuticular expression (CHCs), Dufour’ s gland composition, hence compounds found over egg’s surface. Additionally, explored a effect on workers. Workers treated JH-analog acquired profile that was intermediate between queen other Interestingly, pattern also seen glands eggs, although more subtle. Furthermore, were fertile when compared controls, supporting fact acts as hormone. Our results indicate similar societies V. V . vulgaris