What is the primary role of nurse bees in a colony?

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 primary role of nurse bees in a colony is to care for the brood and larvae. Nurse bees, which are typically younger worker bees, are responsible for the crucial tasks involved in rearing the next generation of bees. This includes feeding larvae with a diet that consists of a mixture of nectar, pollen, and royal jelly, which is essential for their growth and development.

In addition to feeding, nurse bees also perform tasks such as cleaning the brood cells and secreting the necessary substances required for the health of the developing bees. Their work ensures a strong and healthy population within the hive, which is vital for the colony's survival and productivity.

While foraging for nectar and pollen, defending the hive, and regulating temperature are also important aspects of a colony's functioning, these roles are primarily fulfilled by other worker bees rather than nurse bees. By focusing specifically on the care of the brood and larvae, nurse bees play a critical role in maintaining the colony's lifecycle and vitality.

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