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Honey Bees are Critical to Agriculture


Did you know that there are female bees that can reproduce without the use of a males' sperm?

For the majority of animals, including bees, in order to reproduce, the sperm must fertilize the eggs. However, the Cape honeybees in South Africa are able to reproduce without the help of males. This is called asexual reproduction. Somehow, the Cape honeybees' DNA has changed, resulting in their ability to reproduce independently.

Queen bees along with all other female bees, are the protectors of their colonies, because they are the ones equipped with powerful stingers. These bees are very protective of their colony. When they see a threat, they attack with a defensing sting. They also sting because they want to protect themselves from their hive being robbed of food. The Cape honeybees sense when their hives are in danger and will attack. The Cape honeybees love it when you try to escape by going under water. They will just wait there until you need air, ready to sting you in your face or head.

Scientists are looking at these bees because of their unique ability to reproduce asexually. Honeybees are not only interesting animals, they are also very important. Bees help us with pollinating flowers, which allows us to grow fruit and other necessary crops.

[Sources: Science Times; New York Times; Southerns beekeeping association ]

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