Looking all around: Honeybees use different cues in different eye regions

Based on results of early as well as recent behavioural studies, the presen t review compares the performance of different eye regions in exploiting in formation on shape, colour and motion, relevant to the honeybee's foraging task. The comparisons reveal similarities, as well as differences, among th e performances of various eye regions, depending on the visual parameter in volved in the task under consideration. The outcome of the comparisons is d iscussed in the light of anatomical and optical regional specializations fo und in the bee's peripheral visual pathway, as well as in the light of the foraging bee's natural habits. It is concluded that the functional differen ces found among different eye regions are based on neural mechanisms subser ving the bee's natural needs, rather than on peripheral specializations.