1. specialized structures on the hind legs of worker bees used for collecting and carrying pollen
Usage: biological term; plural form

Examples

• The worker bee’s corbiculae were packed with bright yellow pollen.
• Scientists studied the corbiculae to understand pollen collection efficiency.
• The corbiculae allow bees to transport large amounts of pollen back to the hive.
• Honeybees use their corbiculae to carry pollen loads that can weigh up to 35% of their body weight.
• The corbiculae are formed by curved hairs on the bee’s tibia.
• Researchers observed bees grooming pollen into their corbiculae during foraging trips.