Name the two main components of bee venom.

Study for the Texas Master Beekeeper Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The two main components of bee venom are melittin and phospholipase A. Melittin is a peptide that constitutes a substantial portion of bee venom and is primarily responsible for the pain and inflammatory responses when a bee stings. It disrupts cell membranes and causes the release of inflammatory mediators, contributing to the sting's immediate effects. Phospholipase A is an enzyme that further enhances the venom's activity by breaking down phospholipids in cell membranes and contributing to the inflammatory response.

These components highlight the complex nature of bee venom, which is not only meant for defense but can also have varying effects depending on the amount and context of exposure. Other options such as proteins and fatty acids, sugars and amino acids, or water and enzymes, while present in different biological contexts, do not precisely represent the primary constituents of bee venom. Thus, melittin and phospholipase A are specifically recognized for their roles in the biological effects of bee venom.

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