These insects are responsible for most of the pollination on the planet and play an essential role in human life
Bees are fundamental insects for the balance of ecosystems and food production. Present in almost all continents, they are mainly known for their ability to pollinate flowers, ensuring the reproduction of various plants.
This work is essential for nature and human beings, since about 73% of agricultural crops in the world depends on the pollination of insects such as bees, according to the Brazilian association of bees studies: bees, moreover, produce honey, Wax, propolis and Royal Jelly, highly appreciated substances both in food and in medicine.
However, these insects have suffered from an alarming decline of the population due to the destruction of habitats, the use of pesticides and climate change. To better understand the relevance of the bees, get to know some fascinating curiosities about them!
1. There are over 20,000 species of bees in the world
The bees belong to the order of Hymenoptera and the Apoid Superfamille. Until today, scientists have cataloged more than 20,000 different species of these insectsThis varies in size, color and behavior. While some, like the famous Apis Mellifera (Europe), live in organized colonies, many others, such as solitary bees, do not form hive and build their nests in trunks, holes in the ground and even inside the houses.
In Brazil there are over 1,500 native species. According to the bee, about 250 species of bees without puncture have been scientifically described in the country, which, in addition to producing honey, play an important role in the pollination of the native flora and plants related to food production.
2. They live in an extremely organized society
Alveari are formed by a hierarchical social structure divided into three groups: the queen, the workers and the Drows. The queen has the exclusive function of the playground and can lay up to 2,000 eggs per day. The workers, who are sterile females, perform various functions, such as the collection of nectar, the feeding of the larvae, the production of honey and the defense of the hive. The Drows are the males responsible for the fertilization of the queen, but after mating die, because their role in the colony ends.
3. Forms of communication
According to the bee, bees use a sophisticated form of communication Based on chemicals called pheromones. They are produced by various glands of the body of these insects and released into the environment, captured by sensory receptors located on their antennas.
In addition, to inform other bees on the position of food sources, these insects use a form of unique communication called “bee -dance”. When a worker discovers a good source of nectar or pollen, he returns to the hive and performs a series of movements that indicate the direction of the flower and the distance from the sun.
4. They produce much more than simple honey
The bees are mainly known for the production of honey, but this is not the only product they offer. They also produce the wax, used to build the Comniles Hive; Propolis, a resin with antimicrobial properties used to protect the hive from diseases; Royal Jelly, a highly nutritious food produced to nourish the queen; and pollen, which is collected by the flowers and used to feed the larvae. All these products are used by man in food and medicine, due to their numerous health benefits.

5. A pound of honey is the result of the visit to millions of flowers
Honey production is an extremely laborious process. To produce only 1 kg of honey, the bees have to visit about 5 million flowers and take about 150,000 kilometers – the equivalent of four laps around the earth!
This intense work is done by thousands of workers, who collect nectar and transform it into honey through the action of digestive enzymes. This food is essential for the survival of the hive, as it acts as a reserve of energy for periods of scarcity.
6. Some species can be created as “pets”
Meliponulture, a bee breeding practice without sting, has become popular among people interested in contributing to environmental conservation. Different from the ordinary bees, these speciesLike Jataà and Mandçaia, they do not have a sting and can be raised in urban areas without risk. They help in the pollination of plants and still produce a highly appreciated honey, known for their differentiated flavor and medicinal properties.
7. The life of the operating bees is very short
While the queen can live for a maximum of five years, workers bees have a life expectancy of only 45-60 days. During this period, they cross several functions within the colony. At the beginning, they work inside the hive cleaning and fueling the larvae. Then they become the tutors of the hive and finally become collectors of nectar and pollen. This division of tasks is fundamental for the efficient operation of the colony.
8. Bees have an extremely efficient flight
A bee can fly to a speed Up to 25 km/visit hundreds of flowers in one trip. They have the ability to transport up to 50% of their nectar and pollen weight. In addition, long distances can fly, traveling up to 6 km to find food. This impressive performance allows them to polish different plants in a vast area, for the benefit of the environment.
Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.