Heritable variation for latent inhibition and its correlation with reversal learning in honeybees (Apis mellifera)

Latent inhibition (LI) in honeybees (Apis mellifera) was studied by using a proboscis extension response conditioning procedure. Individual queens, dr ones, and workers differed in the degree to which;they revealed LI. The aut hors hypothesized that individual differences would have a substantial gene tic basis. Two sets of progeny were established by crossing virgin queens a nd individual drones, both of which had been selected for differential expr ession of inhibition. LI was stronger in the progeny from the queens and dr ones that had shown greater inhibition. The expression of LI was also depen dent on environmental factors that are most likely associated with age, for aging experience outside of the colony, or both. Furthermore, there was a c orrelated response in the speed at which progeny reversed a learned discrim ination of 2 odors. These genetic analyses may reveal underlying mechanisms that these 2 learning paradigms have in common.