The researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Los Alamos National Laboratory say the new techniques, based on honeybee biology, might become a leading tool in the fight against the use of improvised explosive devices, or IEDs. Such devices currently present a critical vulnerability for American military troops abroad and are an emerging danger for civilians worldwide.

By studying bee behavior and improving existing technologies, the scientists make use of the honeybee's exceptional olfactory sense. They use the bees' natural reaction to nectar -- a proboscis extension reflex -- that could be used to record an unmistakable response to a scent.

Using Pavlovian techniques they trained bees to give a positive detection response, via the proboscis extension reflex, when they are exposed to vapors from TNT, C4, TATP explosives and propellants.

The research is supported by a development grant from the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.

Sound Off...What do you think? Join the discussion.

Copyright 2012 UPI. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

More Military Headlines

• Traumatic Brain Injury Overview
• ABCTE Offers the Passport to Teaching Program
• State Veteran Benefits Mid-West
• Clint Eastwood Used the GI Bill
• DoD Changes Policy on Selected Reserve GI Bill