How to Design Experiments in Animal Behaviour: 4. How Do Bees Estimate the Distance Flown?

Gadagkar, R (2019) How to Design Experiments in Animal Behaviour: 4. How Do Bees Estimate the Distance Flown? In: Resonance – Journal of Science Education, 24 (7). pp. 741-753.

	PDF Gadagkar 2019a-Resonance (July).pdf - Published Version Restricted to Registered users only Download (628kB) | Request a copy
Preview	PDF Erratum_Resonance_24_7_2019.pdf - Erratum / Correction(s) Download (65kB) | Preview

Abstract

This article describes simple experiments that showthat honeybees estimate the distance they have flown, by means of ‘opticflow’, i.e., the extent of image motion experienced by theireyes. The estimated distance is then communicated to the bees at home through the tempo of their dance (number ofdance circuits in 15 s) or the duration of the waggle phase ineach circuit. The experiments also provide strong evidenceagainst the previously held view that distance is estimatedby the amount of energy consumed during the flight. Theseexperiments illustrate how cutting-edge research is possiblewith little or no facilities, equipment or money, by asking theright questions, optimizing the design of the experiments and regarding previously fashionable theories with an appropriate degree of scepticism.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publication:	Resonance – Journal of Science Education
Publisher:	Indian Academy of Sciences
Additional Information:	copyright to this article belongs to Springer
Keywords:	Animal behaviour, experimental design, waggle dance, round dance, tempo of dance, optic flow.
Department/Centre:	Division of Biological Sciences > Centre for Ecological Sciences
Date Deposited:	11 Jan 2021 06:25
Last Modified:	11 Jan 2021 06:25
URI:	http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/67578

Actions (login required)

View Item