Bumble Bee Color Forms (IMAGE) Penn State Caption A new study led by researchers at Penn State has identified the gene responsible for the color switch between the red and black color forms of the bumble bee, Bombus melanopygus. The black form is similar to other bees in the Pacific Coastal region while the red form is similar to other bees in the Rocky Mountain region. Credit Li Tian, Penn State Usage Restrictions Credit must be provided alongside image License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.