Insect Behavior
Most insects are solitary. However, some insects, such as ants, bees, and termites, live in large colonies. The colony is divided into castes, or classes. Most colonies are headed by an adult female, the queen. Typically, one caste is responsible for building and repairing the nest, while another is responsible for feeding and caring for the young. Other castes take care of the queen, locate food, and defend the nest against invaders.
Insects communicate with others of their species in a variety of ways. Some insects communicate by making vibrating noises with their wings or with membranes on their abdomen. Some insects make noises by expelling air from the pharynx or by beating a leg or wing on a hard surface. Some insects secrete various kinds of chemical substances called pheromones. Each kind of pheromone has a specific function, such as to attract members of the opposite sex, to identify an individual's caste, or to mark a trail.
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