CORBICULUM Meaning and
Definition
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Corbiculum refers to a specialized structure found in certain species of bees, particularly in the genera Apis and Bombus, which is used for carrying pollen. In Latin, "corbiculum" literally means "small basket," which accurately describes the physical appearance and function of this structure.
The corbiculum can be found on the hind legs of worker bees and consists of a concave or semicircular depression surrounded by a fringe of bristles or hairs. It is specifically adapted to hold and transport pollen gathered by the bees from flowers during foraging activities. As bees visit flowers, they use their mandibles and proboscis to collect pollen grains, which are then transferred onto their corbiculae.
This anatomic adaptation is highly efficient, ensuring that the collected pollen remains securely attached to the bees' hind legs as they fly back to the hive. The corbiculae play a vital role in the pollination process, as the pollen grains carried by the bees are subsequently used to nourish the colony's brood and produce honey.
These small baskets can vary in size and shape depending on the bee species, and their development can also differ based on the diet of the larvae. The corbiculum is an essential characteristic of certain bees, enabling them to fulfill their ecological role as crucial pollinators in various ecosystems.
Common Misspellings for CORBICULUM
- coriculum
- xorbiculum
- vorbiculum
- forbiculum
- dorbiculum
- cirbiculum
- ckrbiculum
- clrbiculum
- cprbiculum
- c0rbiculum
- c9rbiculum
- coebiculum
- codbiculum
- cofbiculum
- cotbiculum
- co5biculum
- co4biculum
- corviculum
- corniculum
- corhiculum
Etymology of CORBICULUM
The word corbiculum has Latin roots. It is derived from the Latin word corbis, which means basket or woven container. Corbiculum is the diminutive form of corbis, so it can be translated as little basket or small woven container.
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