BIOL 475: Ap. iculture and Bee Biology

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture notes on Apiculture and Bee Biology, focusing on definitions and important terms related to bees and their ecological roles.

Apiculture

The practice of beekeeping, specifically the management of bee colonies for honey production and pollination.

Eusociality

A social structure characterized by cooperative care of offspring, overlapping generations, and division of labor among non-reproductive and reproductive individuals.

Hymenoptera

Order of insects that includes bees, wasps, ants, and sawflies, known for having two pairs of membranous wings and complex social behaviors.

Corbicula

Pollen basket found on the hind legs of some bees, used to carry pollen back to the hive.

Royal jelly

A special food produced by honeybees for the queen and young larvae, known for its nutritional properties.

Tergum

The dorsal part of each segment of an insect's exoskeleton, primarily found on the abdomen.

Malpighian tubules

Excretory structures in insects that remove waste materials from the blood and play a role in osmoregulation.

Proboscis

An elongated mouthpart adapted for feeding, commonly seen in bees for sucking nectar.

Caste polymorphism

The occurrence of different forms or morphs within a species, often associated with reproductive roles such as queen, worker, and drone among bees.

Foraging behavior

The act of searching for and collecting food or resources, such as nectar and pollen, by bees.

Nectar

A sugary fluid secreted by plants to attract pollinators, particularly bees.

Brood

The term used to refer to the eggs, larvae, and pupae of bees within the hive.

Diversity of life

The variety of living organisms, including insects, plants, and animals, which is essential for ecosystem stability and resilience.