In this report, we investigated different possible sources for nestmate recognition cues in the stingless bee F. varia. To clarify the relative importance of endogenous and exogenous cues for discrimination in F. varia, we investigated, first, the possibility of
genetically derived cues by analysing acceptance rates in foreign nests of newly emerged individuals. We also tested food sources and nest material (cerumen) as possible exogenous sources of colony odour. Cerumen is a dark viscous material made from gathered plant resins and wax produced by stingless bee workers.