Function of fragrances collected by Euglossini males (Hymenoptera : Apidae)

A possible answer is offered, on the basis of one occasional observation, t o the puzzle of why males [MM] of Euglossini bees collect fragrances. The s uggested answer is: to attract initially MM and later females [FF]. Such be havior is as follows: the fragrance collected by Euglossini MM is stored in their hind tibiae, where it may be altered and/or mixed with other substan ces. The final compound blend is probably species-specific, and is used to attract conspecific MM. An aggregation of MM is formed and FF are attracted to it. Thus, further studies are necessary that can verify (a) the nature of the substance involved in male aggregation formation, (b) how Euglossini FF locate the male aggregation, and (c) choose their mates. It is also imp ortant to determine (d) whether male aggregations can really influence male visits to other odor sources locally, and (e) what importance the aggregat ions have in determining within-habitat heterogeneity in baiting samples of Euglossini MM.