Explanation of Names
From Greek
eu, good, thorough, plus Latin
sociare to associate, and
-alis characterized by
(1).
Identification
eusocial adjective, eusociality noun - pertaining to, or state of social organization in insects characterized by:
cooperation in care of young
social contact between generations
division of labor, with
castes for reproduction, other duties, such as foraging, defense
Examples of eusocial organization occur in:
termites (Isoptera)--all species eusocial
ants (Formicidae)--all species eusocial
other insects, though not necessarily in North American groups:
weevils,
aphids,
thripsInternet References
Rice University:
Eusocial Insects
Animal Diversity Web--glossary entry for
eusocial
Stockton University of New Jersey,
Insect Societies--has classification of social levels
North Dakota State University:
Social Insects
