Social flexibility in the sweat bee Megalopta genalis

The tropical sweat bee Megalopta genalis can nest either in eusocial groups or solitarily.  Previous research has demonstrated physiological, neurobiological and behavioral differences between solitary reproductives and social reproductives (queens). Here we present results from research examining newly founded nests to test whether these differences exist before offspring emergence. Understanding the development of the social and solitary phenotypes will enhance our understanding of the steps required in the transition from solitary to social behavior.