Abstract

Warfare and insects have always maintained a hidden persistent relationship, with insects being weaponized throughout history for entomological warfare. Several techniques have been used to utilize honeybees as weapons, including bee catapults, bee manikins and bee grenades, aimed at national defense. The advent of landmines in the 19th century introduced a potent, cost-effective means of defense against adversaries. Among methods for landmine detection, biological approaches involving honeybees and wasps have emerged, exploiting their innate behaviours. Techniques such as the Free Flight Method, Proboscis Extension Reflex and Hybrid Insect Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems manipulate honeybee behavior to maximize their efficiency in detecting landmines. Pavlovian classical conditioning underlies this training, where honeybees are exposed to explosive odours followed by immediate sugar syrup rewards. Tracking the spatial pattern of honeybees using LIDAR technology enables the identification of suspected landmine sites. Technological advancements like the VASOR-136 training box developed by Inscentinel Ltd. enable the training of up to 36 bees simultaneously. Pre-concentrator technology, analyzing Aflas-coated sheets at hive entrances, is another effective method for landmine detection. The sensory mechanisms of bees, including antennal sillia, antennal lobe, mushroom body and lateral horn, harbour olfactory receptor neurons crucial for olfaction. Beyond landmine detection, advancements in sniffing technology allow these bees to aid in the early diagnosis of diseases like cancer and diabetes, environmental monitoring, search and rescue missions, security, law enforcement, urban planning and pest management. Ongoing research continues to elucidate the intricacies of their sensory mechanisms, positioning sniffer bees to play an increasingly pivotal role in fostering a sustainable, secure and sustainable future for both humanity and the ecosystem.