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Keystone-like crystals in cells of hornet combs

Author

Listed:
  • Ietse Stokroos

    (Faculty of Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Brain Cognition and Neurosciences, University of Groningen)

  • Luba Litinetsky

    (Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University)

  • Johannes J. L. van der Want

    (Faculty of Medical Sciences, Graduate School of Brain Cognition and Neurosciences, University of Groningen)

  • Jacob S. Ishay

    (Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University)

Abstract

The hexagonal brood-rearing cells inside the nest combs of the hornet Vespa orientalis are uniform in both their architecture and orientation. We have discovered that each cell contains a minute crystal that projects down from the centre of its domed roof and has a composition typical of the magnetic mineral ilmenite1,2. These tiny crystals form a network that may act like a surveyor's spirit-level, helping the hornets to assess the symmetry and balance of the cells and the direction of gravity while they are building the comb.

Suggested Citation

  • Ietse Stokroos & Luba Litinetsky & Johannes J. L. van der Want & Jacob S. Ishay, 2001. "Keystone-like crystals in cells of hornet combs," Nature, Nature, vol. 411(6838), pages 654-654, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:411:y:2001:i:6838:d:10.1038_35079679
    DOI: 10.1038/35079679
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