Definitions For Trophallaxis

Noun

TROPHALLAXIS (plural trophallaxes) (biology) The mutual exchange of (fluid) food between individuals, especially in social insects. : {{usex, en, Trophallaxis is at its most highly developed in social insects such as ants, wasps, bees and termites, but is also used by some birds, and by wolves and vampire bats.}}

Usage notes

The exchange may be mouth-to-mouth or, more rarely, anus-to-mouth. The former may be termed stomodeal trophallaxis, while the latter is called anal, abdominal or proctodeal trophallaxis.

Related terms

trophallactic