Genetic study reveals wasp behavior

CHAMPAIGN, Ill., Sept. 28 (UPI) -- University of Illinois researchers say a study of wasp genetics suggests altruism evolved from maternal behavior.

The research team focused on the expression of behavior-related genes in Polistes metricus paper wasps, a species for which little genetic data was available when the study was begun, the university said Friday in a release.

The report, published online in Science Express, said wasp workers give up their reproductive capabilities and focus entirely on nurturing their larval siblings. The scientists said the behaviors are indicative of a eusocial society, in which some individuals sacrifice their reproductive functions to benefit the larger group.

Post-doctoral researcher Amy Toth said the P. metricus wasps represent a kind of intermediate stage in the evolution of eusocial behavior. A honey bee colony, in which queens never perform maternal tasks, is considered a more developed form of eusociality.

Copyright 2007 by United Press International

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