North Carolina Bee School Practice Exam

What is a potential consequence of overcrowding in a bee colony?

1. Increased honey production

2. Formation of bee beards

3. Swarming

4. Stronger hive defenses

The correct answer is: Swarming

Swarming is a natural reproductive behavior of honeybee colonies that often occurs when a colony becomes overcrowded. When the population density of a hive increases significantly, resources such as space, food, and nesting sites become limited. This lack of space can lead to a situation where the colony feels the need to divide in order to survive and thrive. In this process, the old queen leaves the hive with a substantial portion of the worker bees to form a new colony, while a new queen is raised in the original hive. This behavior helps reduce competition for resources within the original colony and allows the establishment of a new colony, which is essential for the propagation of the species. While it may seem like an adverse consequence, swarming plays a critical ecological role. It ensures genetic diversity and promotes the establishment of new colonies in the surrounding environment. Other factors, such as increased honey production or stronger hive defenses, are less likely outcomes directly linked to overcrowding and do not address the immediate issue of limited space or resources.