A Review of the Role of Genetics in Honeybee Social Behaviors: From Colony Hygiene to the Waggle Dance

Authors

1 Animal Science Research Department, East Azarbaijan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center, AREEO, Tabriz, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran

10.22034/hbsj.2025.370013.1194

Abstract

Honey bees exhibit remarkable social behaviors, such as hygiene and dance communication, which are crucial for the survival and efficiency of their colonies. These behaviors are not merely instinctual but are underpinned by intricate genomic mechanisms that regulate their expression and functionality. Hygiene behavior, a key element of colony health, involves the detection and removal of diseased or dead brood to prevent the spread of pathogens. Genomic studies have identified specific gene networks and pathways responsible for this behavior, shedding light on the molecular basis of disease resistance and collective colony care. Similarly, the honey bee waggle dance—a sophisticated form of communication—enables foragers to convey the precise location of food sources to their hive mates. This behavior relies on a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental stimuli. Research into the genomics of the waggle dance has revealed the role of specific genes in motor coordination, memory, and sensory processing, which together facilitate this complex form of communication. By integrating insights from genomic research, scientists have begun to unravel the genetic blueprints that govern these unique behaviors, offering a deeper understanding of honey bee social organization and its evolutionary significance. This article highlights recent advances in the genomics of hygiene and dance behaviors, emphasizing their importance in maintaining colony health and efficiency. These findings not only enhance our understanding of honey bee biology but also provide valuable insights for improving bee management and conservation efforts in the face of global challenges to pollinator populations.

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