Analysis of Ultrastructure of Antennal Sensilla and Head Transcriptome in Bombus terrestris

Employing integrated scanning electron microscopy and head transcriptome sequencing, this study explored the mechanistic basis of divergent olfactory capabilities in Bombus terrestris castes (drones, workers, queens). We performed a systematic comparative analysis of antennal sensilla ultrastructure and olfactory receptor gene expression profiles across castes. The findings demonstrate a clear caste-specific specialization of the olfactory system at multiple biological levels, offering novel perspectives on the evolution of social insect communication.