This video documents an extraordinary survival strategy that Japanese wild bees have developed. Being capable of tolerating 2°C of temperature vs their enemies, they kill a giant hornet by overheating it at 46°C [📹 BBC Earth]

Animal intelligence is amazing. Think about it: this small insects with brain ~ grain of sand not only find out about that temp difference, but were able to pass the knowledge to next generations. How they manage to do that?

This isn't just about heat. The bees also increase the carbon dioxide concentration inside the ball, adding another layer of stress to the hornet. It's a combination of high temperature and low oxygen that ensures their enemy's demise. This unique defense mechanism is a testament to how species adapt to threats in their environment. While European honeybees haven't developed this strategy and often fall prey to hornets, their Japanese counterparts have evolved this ingenious method to fend off attackers.

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Bee afraid.

After millions of years evolution, even the smallest amount of neurons can come up with the only brilliant solution available to them.

How they can do that, i mean 46°C

Its called Heat Balling.This defensive behavior is an incredible example of collective intelligence and adaptation in the natural world. Japanese honeybees have developed this strategy to defend their colonies against a formidable predator. It showcases the remarkable ways in which species can evolve and adapt to ensure their survival in the face of threats.

Japanese wild bees, like their counterparts in other regions, play a crucial role in pollination and ecosystem health. Among the various species found in Japan, the Japanese giant hornet (Vespa mandarinia japonica) stands out as both a fascinating and formidable insect. While not a bee, it's worth mentioning due to its impact on bee populations.

a little advantage makes a big difference.

He's outnumbered.