The power of poop: Defecation behaviors and social hygiene in insects
Marissa E. Cole, Javier A. Ceja-Navarro, Aram Mikaelyan
Abstract
Feeding and defecation are necessary biological processes. Although the main purpose of defecation is waste elimination, it has also had a profound influence on the evolution of animal behavior and ecological interactions. Due to the capacity of fecal material to support the growth of microbes, including potential pathogens, defecation has direct consequences on animal health. To counter these risks, insects have evolved a range of unique behavioral and physiological adaptations, often involving microbial symbionts; these adaptations are particularly important for social insects, which are at an especially increased risk of fecal exposure and associated disease due to more crowded living conditions and high site fidelity.