Stressed bees have been found to make pessimistic choices, according to new research conducted by scientists. The study suggests that bees exhibit a similar response to setbacks as humans do when faced with stress.
Researchers at Newcastle University conducted an experiment where they trained bumblebees to associate different colours with either positive or negative outcomes. One colour would lead the bees to a location with a sweet reward, while another colour would result in a less favourable outcome.
After the bees learned these associations, they were divided into two groups – one group experienced a simulated attack to induce stress, while the other group did not face any external stress. When presented with an ambiguous colour, the stressed bees were less likely to interpret it as indicating a high reward. Instead, they tended to visit the low reward locations more frequently compared to the unstressed ‘control’ group.
Dr Vivek Nityananda, a behavioural scientist from Newcastle University, commented on the findings, stating, “Our study shows that bees are more pessimistic after stress, suggesting that they do not expect to receive rewards. Emotions are complex states and in humans involve a subjective understanding of what you are feeling. We might never know if bees feel something similar, however, what this research can say is that bees display similar responses to stress and make pessimistic choices.”
Lead researcher Dr Olga Procenko added, “Our research indicates that bees, like other animals including humans, may experience emotion-like states when stressed, as shown by a clear shift towards pessimism. When faced with ambiguity, stressed bees tend to expect negative outcomes, akin to someone viewing the glass as ‘half empty’.”
The study, which delves into the emotional responses of bees, has been published in the biological research journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B. The findings shed light on the intricate behaviours and reactions of bees to stress-inducing situations.
This intriguing research contributes to our understanding of how animals, even the tiny but mighty bees, could exhibit emotional responses similar to those of humans. By studying such behaviour, scientists aim to unravel the complexities of emotions in various species, offering a glimpse into the fascinating world of animal cognition and psychology.