How do adult female yellowjackets deliver protein-rich food to the developing larvae inside the nest?
Answer
By bringing back masticated, protein-rich prey
The process of feeding the larvae is highly specialized; the protein required for growth is delivered only by the adult female yellowjackets who hunt. Once they capture prey, such as flies or spiders, the protein source is masticated (chewed) into a digestible form. This masticated, protein-rich substance is then transported back to the nest and fed directly to the developing young, ensuring they receive the necessary building blocks for their rapid metamorphosis.
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