Australian scientists reveal how honeybee stingers pump venom

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 20:32 · Archive

Australian scientists have discovered how honeybee stingers continue to pump venom after the bee flies away.

Australian scientists at Macquarie University and the University of New South Wales have uncovered how a honeybee's stinger continues to pump venom after the bee flies away. The discovery marks the first time the mechanism has been exposed and filmed.

Researchers have known since the early 20th century that honeybees empty venom sacs into a chamber using small pumps. However, this pioneering study published in US scientific journal PNAS is the first to reveal how stingers continue pumping after becoming detached. Using high-speed video, lead author Dr Fiorella Ramirez-Esquivel identified two tiny, specially shaped valves that function as collapsible pistons. The valves change shape to form a parachute-like seal during the downstroke and collapse to minimise back flow on the upstroke, enabling continuous venom delivery.

Dr Ramirez-Esquivel said the unique geometry of the valves is key to the design. The researchers replicated the mechanism on a 3D printed model. They believe the design could have applications for medical technologies, with suggestions that it might be useful in designing insulin pumps. The five-year project involved capturing insects and extracting stingers using forceps.

How it is being reported

• Scientists solve mystery behind honeybee's stingThe design that allows the honeybee's stinger to continue pumping after coming free of its owner has been discovered, and filmed, for the first time.The West Australian · 12 Oct, 20:02
• Scientists solve mystery behind honeybee's stingThe design that allows the honeybee's stinger to continue pumping after coming free of its owner has been discovered, and filmed, for the first time.Perth Now · 12 Oct, 20:02

In this story: Macquarie University · University of New South Wales · Fiorella Ramirez-Esquivel · PNAS

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