Exploding plug prevents mating: honeybee

1 of 1 Honeybee / Muhammad Mah.. / License

The mating apparatus of male honeybees prevents other males from mating with the queen after them by acting as an exploding, detachable plug.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Regulate physiological processes >
	Reproduction or growth

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Plugging apparatus for leaks such as in oil pipelines, radiators.

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"The mating apparatus of the male honeybee actually explodes and detaches, plugging the newly mated queen and preventing other males from mating with her." (Forsyth 1992:32)

About the inspiring organism

Hymenoptera
Hymenoptera

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Plugging apparatus for leaks such as in oil pipelines, radiators.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Mining, transportation

References

Forsyth, A. 1992. Exploring the World of Insects: The Equinox Guide to Insect Behaviour. Camden House.

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Comments

This article, "Thanks for the plug," from 11/1/10, shows the plug in a nematode and indica...

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