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Tongue microstructure physically constrains division of labor in bumblebee foraging

Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: ) is a primitively eusocial species that sustains its colonies by dividing foraging duties between queens and workers. Previous research emphasizes hormonal, metabolic, and behavioral contrasts between the castes but seldom considers why queens relinquish foraging once workers emerge. Here, we link foraging efficiency to tongue microstructure, providing physical evidence for the shift in bumblebee foraging behavior.
DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2527391123
Authors: Zexiang Huang, Shumeng Wu, Qinglin Wu, Tianyu Mai, Jieliang Zhao, Bo Wang, Jianing Wu
Institutions: Sun Yat-sen University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology, State Key Laboratory of Palaeobiology and Stratigraphy
Language: English
Subfield: Genetics
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7123335364
FWCI:
Cites: 14
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