Apis mellifera

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Honey Bee

Taxonomy:

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Arthropoda
  • Class: Insecta
  • Order: Hymenoptera
  • Family: Apidae
  • Genus: Apis
  • Species: Apis mellifera

Common Names by Region:

  • English: Honey Bee
  • French: Abeille domestique
  • Spanish: Abeja doméstica
  • German: Honigbiene
  • Italian: Ape domestica

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Description: The Apis mellifera, commonly known as the Honey Bee, is a small insect characterized by its robust body, densely hairy thorax, and distinct yellow and black striped abdomen. They have two pairs of wings and prominent compound eyes. Worker bees typically measure between 10 to 15 mm in length, while the queen bee is larger, reaching up to 20 mm.

Known Range: Apis mellifera is found globally, inhabiting various habitats across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. They are highly adaptable and thrive in diverse environments, from forests to urban areas.

Diet: Honey Bees primarily feed on nectar and pollen collected from flowers. Nectar serves as their primary source of energy, while pollen provides essential nutrients. They also produce and store honey, which serves as a food source during periods of scarcity.

Breeding: The reproductive cycle of Apis mellifera involves a complex social structure within the hive. The queen bee lays eggs, which are fertilized by drones during mating flights. Worker bees tend to the brood, ensuring their development until they emerge as adults. The colony’s population fluctuates based on environmental conditions and the availability of resources.

Lifecycle:

  1. Egg Stage: The queen bee lays eggs in individual cells within the honeycomb.
  2. Larval Stage: The eggs hatch into larvae, which are fed by worker bees.
  3. Pupal Stage: Larvae undergo metamorphosis within the cell, transitioning into pupae.
  4. Adult Stage: The mature bee emerges from the cell, assuming various roles within the hive, such as foraging, nursing, or guarding.
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