ANSWERS: 1
  • Bees are attracted to porch lights at night because they demonstrate positive phototactic behavior. They are naturally attracted to light, like many other organisms. Other insects that are positively phototactic include moths and butterflies, while other insects, such as cockroaches, are negatively phototactic and are repelled by light.

    Phototaxis

    Many organisms are either negatively or positively phototactic. Phototaxis refers to an organism's response to light. If an organism is positively phototactic, it is drawn to and attracted by light. If it is negatively phototactic, it is repelled by light and often seeks dark areas. Bees are positively phototactic, which is why they are attracted to porch lights at night.

    Interruption

    After feeding, bees demonstrate positive phototactic behavior on their way back to their hive. Bees typically return to their hives by nightfall. The presence of porch lights near their hive, however, can trigger that positive phototactic response and interrupt their natural behavior patterns.

    Evolution

    Scientists differ on explanations for the presence of phototactic behavior and why it exists. One popular belief is that navigation and migration both require extreme reactions to light sensitivity. Prior to the invention of artificial light, organisms used phototactic behavior with sunlight and moonlight. Artificial lighting interferes with their typical navigation and migration patterns.

    Colors

    While honeybees have the ability to see colors, different shades of lights make no difference to bees, according to R. Menzel and U. Greggers' study published in the "Journal of Comparative Physiology." The scientists concluded that variations in the color spectrum were not a contributing factor to the phototactic behavior of bees.

    Prevention

    It can be difficult to prevent bees from being attracted to porch lights because it is a natural behavior for them. Some lights are specially designed to produce light outside insects' color vision, and these may be effective. Additionally, commercial products designed to keep away other insects, such as mosquitoes, may help deter bees.

    Source:

    Biology Online: Phototaxis

    "Journal of Comparative Physiology;" Natural phototaxis and its relationship to colour vision in honeybees, R. Menzel and U. Greggers; June 5, 1985

    "Insect Behavior;" Robert W. Matthews and Janice R. Matthews; 2009

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