Adnexal glands of the sting apparatus in bees: anatomy and histology. V. (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

The anatomical and histological aspects of the adnexal glands of the sting apparatus of 48 species of Apidae were studied and compared with those of Colletidae, Andrenidae, Halictidae, Megachilidae, Melittidae and Anthophoridae. The results, plus the analyses of data found in the literature on the biology of these bees, permit the conclusion that the "basic" (Dufour's) gland is related to the reproductive system and is the only one found in the Meliponini. The acid gland is the only one responsible for production of venom, and reaches maximum development among the stinging social bees, being absent among Meliponini (stingless bees).