title: Formic acid in caustic cephalic secretions of stingless bee,Oxytrigona (Hymenoptera: Apidae).
abstract: The cephalic extracts of two species in the stingless bee genusOxytrigona were analyzed. Extracts made in diethyl ether, and then derivatized with diphenyldiazomethane, revealed large quantities of formic acid, potentially a major defensive secretion of this stingless bee group. We additionally identify several hydrocarbons, aldehydes, ketones, and acetates. Novel diketones identified by others were detected in both species.
authors.affiliation: Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute APDO, 2072, Balboa, Republic of Panama.
authors.forename: D W
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Roubik
authors.forename: B H
authors.initials: BH
authors.lastname: Smith
authors.forename: R G
authors.initials: RG
authors.lastname: Carlson