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

The primary role of worker bees in a colony is to forage for food. Worker bees are tasked with gathering nectar, pollen, and water, which are essential for the sustenance of the colony. They play a critical role in the pollination of plants, which not only supports the hive but also contributes to the larger ecosystem.

In addition to foraging, worker bees carry out a variety of other responsibilities, such as cleaning the hive, feeding the queen and larvae, and maintaining the temperature of the hive. However, their primary function, which is vital for the colony's survival, is foraging for food to ensure that there is enough nourishment available for all members, especially during times of scarcity.

Other roles, such as laying eggs, are essential but are primarily performed by the queen. Defending the hive and caring for the queen are also important tasks, but they are secondary to the crucial need for food supply that worker bees fulfill through foraging.