te recognition signals have recently been the focus of considerable attention. In the natural environment, single-compound pheromones are actually rather rare. Moreover, in order to achieve their high degree of specificity, ant recognition labels would have to be quite complex.
In recent years, various studies have investigated colony-specific profiles of cuticular hydrocarbons. The compounds are produced in a variety of exocrine glands. Smeared on the surfaces of ants' bodies, cuticular hydrocarbons could provide both heritable and environmental recognition cues. Furthermore, according the "gestalt model" proposed by Crozier & Dix (1979), there might be a continuous transfer--i.e., through social grooming or trophallaxis--of these substances between group members. Thus, the odor created by the chemicals would be held in common by all of the ants in any given colony.
The gestalt model also depicts colony-specific cuticular hydrocarbon profiles as being dynamic. The profiles might be affected by numerous factors.
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