Self-Control in Bumblebees (Bombus Terrestris): Preference Switch as a Function of Delay to the Larger Reinforcer

Abstract

This study investigated self-control in bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) using a refined adjusting delay procedure. Four bumblebees were given a choice between an immediate, less sweet sucrose solution and a delayed, sweeter solution. The delay for the richer option was systematically increased (5, 5, 10, 10, 15, 15... seconds) to identify the point at which bumblebees would switch preferences, serving as a proxy for self-control. Results revealed variability in switching points, with delay intervals ranging from 5 to 85 seconds. Notably, all subjects demonstrated a preference for the delayed, richer option, with an average choice distribution of 84%, suggesting high levels of self-control. These findings were discussed concerning methodological adjustments and interspecies variability in self-control.