Multicomponent Mandibular Gland Secretions in Three Species of Andrena Bees (Hym., Apoidea)

Abstract

Bees of the species-rich genus Andrena (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) emit, when handled, a strong odour which is easily perceived by humans. As proved in the 11 species investigated so far, the compositions of the volatile multicomponent secretions are species specific [1 -3], while the odour bouquets of males and females strongly resemble each other