Nuptial flight is an important phase in the reproduction of most ant, termite, and some bee species.[1] It is also observed in some fly species, such as Rhamphomyia longicauda.
During the flight, virgin queens mate with males and then land to start a new colony, or, in the case of honey bees, continue the succession of an existing hived colony.
The winged version of ants and termites are known as alates.
- ^ "How Does An Ant Colony Start". Archived from the original on 2011-08-11. Retrieved 2007-07-13.