Queenless wasp colonies rely on hidden helpers during chaos

26 Mwezi wa tano, 2026

Imeripotiwa na AI

When a queen wasp vanishes, her tropical colony erupts into violent power struggles. New research shows that some females avoid the fights and instead sustain essential tasks to prevent collapse.

Researchers at University College London examined colonies of tropical paper wasps, Polistes canadensis, in Panama. They removed queens from established groups and observed immediate aggressive competition among females for dominance. The normal social order quickly broke down as multiple wasps vied for the top position.

Makala yanayohusiana

Study finds honey bees grow aggressive without pollen

A new field study shows that honey bees deprived of pollen become more aggressive and display signs of stress. Researchers simulated a pollen shortage over five weeks to examine the effects on bee behavior and health.

California hybrid bees resist deadly Varroa mites

21 Mwezi wa nne, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

A hybrid population of honeybees in Southern California demonstrates natural resistance to Varroa mites, a major threat to bee colonies. Researchers at UC Riverside found these bees carry 68% fewer mites and require far less chemical treatment. The discovery, detailed in a new study, suggests early-life defenses in larvae may hold the key.

Sayansi

Honey bees refine waggle dance based on audience size

Beekeeping

Beekeepers debate queen excluder benefits

Europe

Study shows bumblebees sensitive to road traffic

Bumblebees show sense of rhythm in new experiments

Buff-tailed bumblebees have demonstrated an ability to recognize rhythmic patterns, surprising scientists who thought it required a large brain. Researchers trained the insects to distinguish sequences of flashing lights and vibrations, akin to Morse code. The findings suggest even small-brained animals can process abstract rhythms.

New advice on honey bee disease detection

1 Mwezi wa sita, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

A recent guide offers practical steps for beekeepers to spot and handle colony illnesses.

Pink katydid transforms into green camouflage in Panama

Scientists observed a rare tropical katydid changing color from bright pink to green over 11 days in Panama. The transformation helps the insect mimic young rainforest leaves that start pink before maturing green. Researchers describe it as a survival strategy rather than a mutation.

Social bonds shape gut bacteria in Seychelles warbler birds

15 Mwezi wa nne, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Researchers at the University of East Anglia have found that Seychelles warblers with closer social ties share more similar gut microbes, particularly anaerobic types spread through direct contact. The study on Cousin Island suggests social interactions drive this microbial exchange. Similar effects likely occur among humans living together.

Jumatatu, 8. Mwezi wa sita 2026, 05:04:34