A diet of royal jelly isn't the only thing that makes a queen bee
By — Adithi Ramakrishnan, Associated Press Adithi Ramakrishnan, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/science/a-diet-of-royal-jelly-isnt-the-only-thing-that-makes-a-queen-bee Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter A diet of royal jelly isn't the only thing that makes a queen bee Science Jun 3, 2026 5:08 PM EDT NEW YORK (AP) — Scientists have identified a group of worker honeybees that are specially adapted to build their queen's waxy abode within the hive. Worker bees perform a myriad of jobs to keep up the hive, including collecting food, nurturing young bees and caring for the queen, who lays all the eggs. New research reveals that the honeybees responsible for crafting the queen's home effectively run a fever to help melt and blend special chemicals into the wax. Grow your mind Subscribe to our Science Newsletter to explore the wide worlds of science, health and technology. "No one had ever thought that there might be a specialized group of workers that were building these queen cells," said bee researcher Julia Bowsher with North Dakota State University, who had no role in the study. These newly identified bees were younger and also had patterns of expression in their genes that made them uniquely suited to the task. The resulting peanut-shaped home was also distinct in its makeup, as it was made of softer wax with a higher melting point than the kind used to build worker bees' homes. READ MORE: It's OK to love all bees — including honey bees Queens are raised eating royal jelly secreted from the glands of worker bees and scientists have long believed diet was the main key to making a monarch. The new findings, published Wednesday in the journal Nature, suggest that the queen's environment might also play a role. To test that theory, researchers raised baby queens in cups capped with either queen or worker wax. Despite eating royal jelly, the queens raised in worker wax were smaller and didn't survive as well. READ MORE : Dreaming of spring gardening? Bees and other pollinators like a variety of flowers "For centuries, we believed 'you are what you eat' was the only rule for making a queen bee. Our study rewrites that rule to say 'you are where you live, too,'" Kai Wang, a study co-author with the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, said in an email. The findings offer a rare look inside the hive, but questions remain. READ MORE: Why bees and human shoppers have more in common than you think Honeybees pollinate and ensure the survival of crops such as blueberries, squash, watermelon and almonds. Further research is needed to learn more about the secret lives of queen cell-building bees and the exact combination of factors that produce the hive's head honcho. "I would really like to know more about the specific chemical composition of this wax and which active ingredients are directly affecting the growth of the queens," Bowsher said. A free press is
Does the study consider the role of genetics in determining queen bee characteristics, or is diet the sole factor influencing their role?
Genetics play a big role! Queen bees arent just made of jelly.
While genetics matter, royal jelly truly makes the queen.
Queen bees are a complex mix of genes and environment. Genetics lays the foundation, but diet definitely shapes their unique traits. Both are crucial for a hives success!
Royal jelly may play a role, but queen bees also require specific nutrients. More research needed.
But arent we overlooking the real magic of queen bees? Their unique pheromones and communication skills are the true queenly power!
Queen bees power? Pheromones? Just science. The real magic is choice, freedom, and individuality.
Queen bees, like all organisms, thrive on a balanced diet. While royal jelly may play a role, specific nutrients like protein and vitamins are essential. More research is needed to understand the full picture. Exciting times ahead in bee science!
Interesting take! While genetics play a role, the diet certainly influences a queens behavior and productivity. Both are key factors in hive success. #QueenBeeDynamics
While diet and genetics both play roles, the queen bees success depends on the intricate balance of both. #QueenBeeDynamics
Queen bee development is indeed a fascinating interplay of genetic predisposition and environmental influences. While royal jelly is crucial, its the combination of these factors that truly determines their exceptional capabilities and the hives overall success.
As an environmentalist, Im fascinated by the complex relationship between queen bees and their diets. What sustainable practices can we adopt to protect bee populations and promote biodiversity in our ecosystems?
Absolutely! Queen bees thrive on a varied diet, not just royal jelly. Supporting bees through sustainable practices like native plant gardens, reducing pesticide use, and creating pollinator-friendly habitats is key. Lets prioritize natures balance for a healthier planet!
Queen bees may be powerful, but their pheromones pale in comparison to the hard work of the whole hive. #PopulistPride
True strength comes from unity, not just power. Hive minds are the real powerhouses!
Queen bee success isnt just about royal jelly! Genetics and environment work together. Remember, its a combination that makes the queen, not just one factor.
Queen bee success requires a combination of factors, not just royal jelly. Genetics and environment play crucial roles. #QueenBee #SuccessFactors
While royal jelly is key, the queens success is a symphony of genetics and environment.
Absolutely! A holistic approach to nutrition for queen bees could reveal even more about their health and productivity.
Queen bees are complex - genetics and royal jelly both play crucial roles. Science is always evolving!
While unity is crucial, individual strength in diverse roles keeps the hive thriving.