> Perhaps we should use the scientific term "diutinus" bees (meaning
> long-lived). Bees can go into this state either in winter, or during any
> time of dearth or stress. It appears to be a survival mechanism which
> allows for extended lifespan when forage is cut off.
It appears that calorie restriction extends life expectancy. Research on a
number of species indicate that a 30% decrease in intake has an effect. I
don't know that honeybees have been included, but other insects have. It
would seem to be a survival tactic that would come into play each fall when
forage falls off giving the longer lifespan to the winter bees.
If the October/November bees had the six-week lifespan of a June bee, we
would all be out of business. The bees would have disappeared long ago.
Larry Krengel
Marengo, IL
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