A MATHEMATICAL-MODEL OF SELF-ORGANIZED PATTERN-FORMATION ON THE COMBS OF HONEYBEE COLONIES

We present a mathematical model that generates the characteristic concentric pattern of brood, pollen and honey which develops on the combs of a honeybee colony. Parameter estimates are derived from experimental observations and previously published data. Numerical solutions of the model equations exhibit patterns similar to those observed in honeybee colonies. Our model demonstrates how a colony-level pattern arises from the dynamic interactions of many bees using simple behavioral rules based on local cues. Through a self-organizing process, a consistent, global pattern emerges on an initially homogeneous comb. © 1990 Academic Press Limited.