Effect of Non-Ionizing Electromagnetic Radiation on Behavior of the Honeybee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera, Apidae)

Abstract

We studied the effect of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation (EMR) of a Wi-Fi router on sensory olfactory excitability, food motivation, and the ability to form a conditioned reflex (PER), and its retention in short-term and long-term memory in the honeybee. The bees were placed in a Faraday cage for various periods of time (up to 24 h), with the Wi-Fi router switched on (test) or off (control). A 24-hour impact of Wi-Fi EMR had a significant inhibitory effect on food excitability and short-term memory in honeybees. By contrast, long-term memory of honeybees insignificantly increased.