What is the corbicula in bees?

The corbicula, commonly known as the pollen basket, is a specialized structure located on the hind legs of worker bees. It is designed to effectively collect and transport pollen back to the hive. The smooth, concave shape of the corbicula allows for pollen to be packed tightly as bees forage. When a bee visits flowers, they collect pollen on their bodies, which is then brushed onto the corbicula, enabling them to carry significant amounts of pollen efficiently. This adaptation is crucial for bees, as pollen is an essential food source for the hive, particularly for feeding developing larvae.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately describe the corbicula. The digestive system does not include this structure, nor is it involved in visual processing. Additionally, the corbicula is not a respiratory organ; its primary function is associated with the transportation of pollen, making it a critical component of a bee's foraging behavior and overall role within the hive.