CHANGES IN THE CUTICULAR HYDROCARBON COMPOSITION DURING DEVELOPMENT OF THE SOCIAL WASP, VESPULA-GERMANICA (F) (HYMENOPTERA, VESPIDAE)

1. Cuticular hydrocarbon compositions of mature larvae and newly-emerged adults of the social wasp, Vespula germanica are similar but dramatic changes occur during pupation. 2. Large amounts of n-nonacosane appear in early pupal stages and substantial quantities of n-heneicosane and n-tricosane in later pupal stages. 3. Workers, males and queens have similar hydrocarbon compositions. 4. Total hydrocarbon content is recorded and discussed. 5. The hydrocarbons of unused nest carton resemble those of mature workers but after brood rearing acquire pupal characteristics.