What liquid does the larva secrete to sustain the adult wasp?
Answer
Sugary, nutrient-rich liquid
The sustenance exchange between the larva and the adult worker is a crucial biological transaction known as trophallaxis. When an adult delivers the digested and processed, chewed-up insect matter to the waiting larva, the larva then performs the secondary role of processing this protein. In return for receiving the necessary building blocks, the larva secretes a distinctive liquid substance from its mouthparts. This secretion is characteristically sugary and packed with vital nutrients, making it an easily absorbed energy source that the adult worker then consumes to fuel its activities, thereby completing the nutritional loop.
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