Excised honeybee abdomens and the biosonic analyzer system aid pharmacological and toxicological investigation
Roy J. Pence, University of California
California Agriculture 23(12):6-8. DOI: 10.3733/ca.v023n12p6.
Roy J. Pence is Specialist, Department of Agricultural Sciences (Entomology), University of California, Los Angeles.
Dorsal and ventral views (right photos) of excised honeybee abdomens showing setae-covered plates which move over sandpaper surface of bioanalyzer receptacle. Sketch below shows segments of abdomen and diagram to right shows operation of the biosonic analyzer: (1) receptacle cone of fine grade sandpaper with (2) abdomen in place, sending vibrations to (3) piezo-electric element, producing electrical signal to (4) amplifier from which it is transcribed by (5) servo-chart recorder—or can be heard in (5a) earphones. Lower photo shows author checking the recorder chart of the biosonic analyzer while also listening for changes in frequency of vibration through earphones.
Through cooperation with Physionics Corporation, Southern Pines, North Carolina, an updated unit (photo) of greater capability than the apparatus herein described, is currently available for laboratory and teaching purposes.