Cognitive Scaffold

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MENTAL MODEL · M3804

Trophallaxis

Trophallaxis
BehaviorHigh supportOrganizational Behavior
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-28

CORE DEFINITION

Trophallaxis is the direct transfer of fluid and food (excreted, secreted or regurgitated) between individuals, typically through mouth-to-mouth (stomodeal) or anus-to-mouth (proctodeal) feeding. Along with nutrients, trophallaxis can involve the transfer of molecules such as proteins, hormones, organisms such as symbionts, and information to serve as a form of communication. Trophallaxis is u

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Trophallaxis is the direct transfer of fluid and food (excreted, secreted or regurgitated) between individuals, typically through mouth-to-mouth (stomodeal) or anus-to-mouth (proctodeal) feeding.

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Social insects transfer food mouth-to-mouth while also transmitting pheromones (colony status/needs), forming a 'liquid network'; analogous to informal communication in organizations (e.g., water cooler conversations) efficiently circulating tacit knowledge and culture.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TrophallaxisZH · Explicit
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