Honeybees make specialised ‘baby food’ to give larvae balanced diet, study says
A study from the University of Oxford reveals that honeybees create specialized 'baby food' for their larvae to ensure a balanced nutritional intake. Researchers suggest that pollinator-friendly planting schemes should prioritize a diverse range of pollen sources to support bee health.
Why it matters
Understanding bee nutrition is critical for biodiversity conservation and the success of agricultural pollinator programs.
Researchers say landowners in pollinator-friendly schemes should consider the diversity of pollen sources and their nutritional quality. Photograph: Petrica Rizea/Alamy View image in fullscreen Researchers say landowners in pollinator-friendly schemes should consider the diversity of pollen sources and their nutritional quality. Photograph: Petrica Rizea/Alamy Bees Honeybees make specialised ‘baby food’ to give larvae balanced diet, study says Researchers also discover bees can adjust their diets when pollen sources do not provide healthy level of nutrients
The report is a straightforward summary of scientific findings without political or social bias.
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