Corbiculae

/kɔrˈbɪkjuliː/ noun

Definition

Plural of corbicula; small basket-shaped pouches on the hind legs of honeybees used for carrying pollen.

Etymology

From Latin corbula meaning 'small basket,' diminutive of corbis. The term was applied to bee anatomy because of the basket-like structure's resemblance to Roman grain baskets.

Kelly Says

Honeybees are basically tiny farmers with built-in shopping bags on their legs—these pollen baskets are so efficient that a single bee can carry pollen weighing half its body weight!

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