http://trellia-chan.livejournal.com/ ([identity profile] trellia-chan.livejournal.com) wrote in [community profile] 1word1day2015-10-01 12:31 am

Wednesday word: trophallaxis

trophallaxis: [trof-uh-lak-sis]

noun:

Trophallaxis is the the transfer of food, nutrients, and other secretions by mouth-to-mouth or mouth-to-anus feedings within a community. This behavior can be found in colonies of insects such as bees, ants and termites, and it some species, is a form of communication as well as nutrition.  It is also the method by which gray wolves, vampire bats, and many species of birds feed their young.

etymology:  Coined in 1918 by entomologist William Morton Wheeler. T
roph- + Greek állaxis "exchange"

Post a comment in response:

This account has disabled anonymous posting.
If you don't have an account you can create one now.
HTML doesn't work in the subject.
More info about formatting