Accumulating wing damage affects foraging decisions in honeybees (Apis mellifera L.)

Abstract.  1. Nectar‐foraging honeybees (Apis mellifera) on lavender (Lavandula stoechas) appear to forage so as to maximise net energy return from foraging bouts; however, evidence from other studies suggests that foraging has a detrimental effect on survival, due at least in part to physiological deterioration of the flight mechanism. But foragers also acquire wing damage during foraging, which may increase foraging effort and reduce foraging lifespan.

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