Bumblebees: An Electric Exchange

The buzz, buzz, buzzing of a bumblebee may be an unwelcome sound to you. But for a flower, it’s positively electric.

According to a new study out of the UK, bumblebees carry a small electric charge that entices some flowers to increase the emittance of floral volatile compounds. Scientists have found that the positive charge stimulates petunia (Petunia integrifolia) flowers to release benzaldehyde, an almond-like fragrance. Because pollen is often negatively charged, this electric interaction might aid bumblebees in pollen collection.

Scientists have known that bees play a vital role in flower pollination. But this new research indicates that flowers may also be key contributors in advertising their presence during the electrical stimulus. Researchers are fascinated by this communicative design and hope to further study how floral emissions, such as benzaldehyde, influence the interaction between plants and pollinators. Additional research may also provide information for understanding flower fertilization during bee visits.

God has equipped bumblebees with an electrical charge and has perfectly designed petunia flowers to respond to the electrical stimulus for pollination. Clearly, the processes of this electrical relationship are not aimless. They are orchestrated to seamlessly work together, demonstrating God’s incredible handiwork. Creation is truly abuzz with God’s glory!