This research examines whether addictive plant alkaloids like caffeine, nicotine, and morphine alter pollinator behavior. Using robotic flowers, it shows bees prefer drug-spiked nectar, learn cues faster, and may make suboptimal feeding choices. The work explores whether pollinators can develop dependency or withdrawal, suggesting plants may chemically manipulate their pollinators.

Bumblebees navigate complex environments by using optic flow—the motion of images across their eyes—to estimate speed and detect obstacles. Unlike other insects that rely on lateral optic flow, bumblebees monitor the frontal-lateral field to see hazards earlier. This research reveals how bees avoid collisions and informs bio-inspired flight control.