85 



Tongue of Honey Bee. 



The structure of the tongue of Apis mellifica 

 is remarkably complex, and yet -comprised 

 within very small dimensions. The two outer 

 semi-sheaths are greatly extended maxillae, 

 which form a tube-sheath, when closed, for 

 the protection of the delicate lingula or 

 tongue proper, as well as the two labial 

 palpi. These latter are also greatly de- 

 veloped, and coming together form an inner 

 sheath for the tongue. The tongue itself, being 

 a most delicate organ, is well protected by 

 double sheaths. 



When it is necessary to put the tongue 

 into operation the maxillae pierce the flower 

 and open out, enlarging the opening made to 

 make way for the tongue to penetrate the 

 flower-depths for their juices. The tongue, 

 when in use, is capable of protrusion far be- 

 yond the limits of its double sheaths. It is 

 a veritable proboscis covered with hairs. When 

 the whole apparatus is closed, the tongue is 

 retracted into a small space. 



