Nutritional Physiology and Metabolism of Honey Bees

Nutrition in honey bees is studied at three different stages; colony, individuals and broods. Nectar, honeydew (insect secretions with carbohydrate rich), pollen, royal jelly and water are the main food sources of honey bees. While pollen collection is more directly proportional to the needs of the colony, nectar harvesting depends on the foragers, season and flora. Water has an important role for brood's food and to adjust the temperature of the brood area. The physiological age-related division of labor in honey bees has also show a specialization in food collection, storage, feeding of broods and adults. The amount and quality of foods directly affect the continuity of colony life, defense against diseases and pests, but the demographic structure of the colony population also determines the amount of foods collected and stored. The main carbohydrate source of honey bees is nectar and protein source is pollen and royal jelly. The aim of this study is to review nutritional physiology in the growth, development and reproductive requirements of honey bees at individuals and colony level. In addition, it is aimed to compile information about protein and carbohydrate metabolism.