Protocol for measuring the effects of an inhibitory signal associated with danger on honey bee dopamine levels

Abstract

Summary: The stop signal is produced in response to negative experiences at the food source and inhibits honey bee (Apis mellifera) waggle dancing. Here, we present a protocol for measuring the effects of an inhibitory signal associated with danger on honey bee dopamine levels. We describe steps for observing honey bee colonies, training them with artificial nectar, and simulating hornet attacks. We then detail procedures for recording waggle dancing and stop signals and measuring brain dopamine levels during different treatments.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Dong et al.1 : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

Keywords

• Environmental sciences
• Evolutionary biology
• Model Organisms