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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 16, 2026

Radio Frequency Identification and Motion-sensitive Video Efficiently Automate Recording of Unrewarded Choice Behavior by Bumblebees

Radio Frequency Identification and Motion-sensitive Video Efficiently Automate Recording of Unrewarded Choice Behavior by Bumblebees

Published on: November 15, 2014

Noxious stimulation induces self-protective behavior in bumblebees.

Matilda Gibbons^1,2, Elisa Pasquini³, Amelia Kowalewska^4,2

¹Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.

|August 6, 2024

Summary

Bumblebees exhibit self-protective grooming behavior when their antennae are stimulated with noxious heat. This study provides empirical evidence of self-protective actions in insects, challenging previous assumptions.

Keywords:

Entomology Neuroscience Zoology

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Published on: December 25, 2017

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Last Updated: Jul 16, 2026

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Published on: November 15, 2014

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SwarmSight: Real-time Tracking of Insect Antenna Movements and Proboscis Extension Reflex Using a Common Preparation and Conventional Hardware

Published on: December 25, 2017

Area of Science:

Insect behavior
Neuroethology
Animal welfare

Background:

Previous research suggested insects lack self-protective responses to noxious stimuli.
The empirical basis for this claim in insects has been largely untested.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate if bumblebees display self-protective behavior, specifically self-grooming, when exposed to noxious stimulation.
To empirically test the hypothesis of self-protective behavior in insects.

Main Methods:

Bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) were stimulated on an antenna using a heated probe (65°C).
Grooming behavior of the stimulated antenna was compared to the untouched antenna.
Control groups included bees stimulated with an unheated probe or not stimulated.

Main Results:

Bumblebees significantly increased grooming of the noxiously heated antenna within two minutes post-stimulus.
Grooming rates were higher compared to the untouched antenna and control groups.
This indicates a targeted self-protective response to noxious stimulation.

Conclusions:

Bumblebees demonstrate self-protective behavior through targeted self-grooming.
Findings challenge the notion that insects do not protect themselves from harmful stimuli.
Results prompt further investigation into the neural basis and potential for pain perception in insects.