Variation of ommatidia number as a function of worker size in Camponotus pennsylvanicus (DeGeer) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

The relation of worker size to ommatidia number was examined in the polymorphic and Camponotus pennsylvanicus (DeGeer). Linear regression described this relationship as: Y = 260.9 + 113.6 X; where Y is ommatidia number and X is head width. A log-log regression described this relationship as: Y = 323.5 + 286.9 super(*)log X (r super(2) = 0.98). This analysis indicated an allometric relation of ommatidia number to head width, where ommatidia numbers increase at a slower rate than head width. This relationship is discussed in terms of ethotypes associated with worker morphotypes, and the possible mechanisms regulating polymorphic development.