Raw behavioral choice data for honeybee discrimination of aperture height across multiple scales
Data files
Apr 20, 2026 version files 3.71 MB
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Figure_1c.py
5.26 KB
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Figure_2.py
24.10 KB
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Figure_S1.py
4.24 KB
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Jakobi_Honeybee_Aperture_Raw_Data.csv
682 B
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Movie_S1.mp4
371.62 KB
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Movie_S2.mp4
420.29 KB
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Movie_S3.mp4
177.27 KB
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Movie_S4.mp4
766.16 KB
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Movie_S5.mp4
878.47 KB
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Movie_S6.mp4
771.17 KB
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Movie_S7.mp4
289.81 KB
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README.md
2.39 KB
Abstract
This dataset contains raw behavioral choice data from psychophysical experiments testing the ability of honeybees to discriminate between side-by-side apertures of varying heights. The experiments investigated visual resolution limits by testing bees' ability to choose a taller aperture over a shorter one across three different size scales (Large: 60 mm; Medium: 30 mm; Small: 15 mm). The data is structured as binomial counts, recording the total number of flights (n) and the number of correct choices (k, defined as choosing the taller aperture) for specific relative height differences. These data were used to fit psychometric functions to determine visual discrimination thresholds.
GENERAL INFORMATION
- DOI: 10.5061/dryad.m0cfxppj2
- Author Information: Timothy R. Jakobi (Chiba University).
- Associated Publication: Jakobi, T.R., et al. (2026). Threading the needle: Spatial constraints sharpen visual sensitivity in honeybees. Biology Letters. [Accepted]
Note: Supplementary text and figures supporting this dataset are available as Electronic Supplementary Material via the journal website.
FILE OVERVIEW:
- Jakobi_Honeybee_Aperture_Raw_Data.csv: Main dataset containing raw trial counts and choice proportions.
- Figure_1c.py: Visualization of experimental aperture scales.
- Figure_2.py: Psychometric function fitting, bootstrapping and analysis.
- Figure_S1.py: Assessment of lateral bias.
- Movies S1-S7: Videos demonstrating various bee behaviors (traversal, pivoting, sideslipping, and lateral peering) across different aperture heights.
- Approaching and traversing a 15 mm tall aperture (Movie_S1.mp4).
- Correctly selecting and traversing a 30 mm tall aperture (Movie_S2.mp4).
- Flying through a narrow 7.5 mm aperture (Movie_S3.mp4).
- Traversing a narrow 7.5 mm aperture by pivoting its body (Movie_S4.mp4).
- Sideslipping through a 15 mm aperture (Movie_S5.mp4).
- Conducting lateral peering manoeuvres (Movie_S6.mp4).
- Using leg movements to assist in traversal of a 15 mm aperture (Movie_S7.mp4).
CODE & ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
To run the provided .py scripts, the following environment is required:
- Language: Python 3.8 or higher.
- Required Libraries:
numpy(Numerical analysis)pandas(Data processing)matplotlib(Visualization)scipy(Psychometric function fitting/optimisation)
- Execution: Ensure
Jakobi_Honeybee_Aperture_Raw_Data.csvis in the same directory as the scripts before running. - Run the figure scripts (
Figure_1c.py,Figure_2.py,Figure_S1.py) to generate the main visual elements and statistical outputs used in the manuscript.
DATA-SPECIFIC INFORMATION
- Delta: Relative height difference calculated as (Htall - Hshort) / Hshort.
- n: Total number of choices (flight samples) recorded.
- k: Number of choices for the taller aperture.
- r: Ratio of aperture heights (Hshort / Htall).