| About this Abstract |
| Meeting |
2024 TMS Annual Meeting & Exhibition
|
| Symposium
|
Biological Materials Science
|
| Presentation Title |
Unravelling the Construction of the Tetragonula Carbonaria Brood Comb Using
3D X-ray Microscopy |
| Author(s) |
Rahul Franklin, Eshan Ganju, Rosalyn Gloag, Brock A. Harpur, Nikhilesh Chawla |
| On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Rahul Franklin |
| Abstract Scope |
Bees of the species Tertagonula carbonaria, found in eastern Australia, have unique comb architectures to nurse their brood. The three major patterns seen in these combs are classified as a target, spiral, and double spiral architectures. These architectures are very different from the classical hexagonal combs built by the European honeybee (Apis mellifera). Until now, T. carbonaria combs were characterized by two-dimensional surface observations. As a result, critical features of the combs microstructure have been hidden and left out of reach.
In this study, the three-dimensional structure of these combs was characterized through X-ray microscopy. The varying patterns differ in the way layers are built upon existing layers. Layers of the comb are supported by thickly reinforced cell bottoms and vertical support pillars. Porosities are seen to be occurring at the junction between cells. Further, we will elaborate upon the possible mechanisms for the growth of the different architectures. |
| Proceedings Inclusion? |
Planned: |
| Keywords |
Biomaterials, Other, Other |