Study reveals some bees shift colour depending on humidity – and may explain why the same species can look different across climates.
Study reveals some bees shift colour depending on humidity – and may explain why the same species can look different across climates.
Some bees really do change colour with the weather, according to new research that shows humidity can temporarily alter the shimmering hues of certain species.
In a study published today in Biology Letters, scientists led by Dr Madeleine Ostwald of Queen Mary University of London found that moisture in the air can cause sweat bees to change colour — and then change back again when conditions dry out.
Sweat bees are known for their bright, metallic greens and blues. Until now, reports that their colours could shift have been anecdotal. This new research provides the first experimental proof.
Read More: Queen Mary University of London
Image: A sweat bee in the wild (photo by Jeremiah Bender who retains the copyright on this images. This may be used in any article in association with this story).
