Honeybees use their wings for water surface locomotion

Area of Science:

• Fluid dynamics
• Biolocomotion
• Insect biomechanics

Background:

• Honeybees face challenges at the air-water interface due to water's adhesive forces, which impede traditional aerodynamic locomotion.
• Wetted wings prevent honeybees from generating aerodynamic thrust, necessitating alternative propulsion methods for surface movement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the unique biolocomotion strategy employed by honeybees on the water surface.
• To elucidate the mechanisms and hydrodynamics behind honeybee water surface propulsion.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of honeybee wing kinematics during water surface locomotion.
• Use of a mechanical model wing to mimic bee wing motion and study fluid dynamics.
• Measurement of hydrodynamic momentum imparted to the water.

Main Results:

• Honeybees utilize their wetted wings as hydrofoils, achieving speeds up to 3 body lengths per second.
• Locomotion generates approximately 20 μN of average thrust via asymmetric water waves and a water jet stream.
• Wing kinematics involve a skewed stroke plane with supination and pronation, creating a 'recoil locomotion' effect.

Conclusions:

• Honeybee water surface propulsion is a distinct hydrofoiling mechanism, different from surface skimming or water walking.
• This self-propulsion ability likely enhances survival rates for honeybees falling into water while foraging.