Antennae detect individual orchid species: iridescent bees

1 of 1 Antennae detect individual orchid species: iridescent bees / Mick E. Talb.. / License

The antennae of iridescent bees detect the scent of individual orchid species using especially sensitive chemoreceptors.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Process information >
	Sense signals/environmental cues >
	Chemicals (odor, taste, etc.)

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Biosensor with increased sensitivity

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

In the forests of Central America, "Each of the twenty or so species of bucket orchid has its own brand of scent. Although human nostrils cannot distinguish between them, the iridescent bees that live in these forests certainly can. Each species of orchid attracts its own species of bee." (Attenborough 1995:108)

About the inspiring organism

Apidae
Apidae

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

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Biosensor with increased sensitivity.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Biosensors

References

Attenborough, D. 1995. The Private Life of Plants: A Natural History of Plant Behavior. London: BBC Books. 320 p.

Antennae detect individual orchid species: iridescent bees

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