What is the significance of the "waggle dance" performed by bees?

The waggle dance performed by bees is significant because it serves as a sophisticated form of communication that informs other bees about the location of food sources. When a foraging bee finds a rich source of nectar, pollen, or water, it returns to the hive and performs the waggle dance, which involves moving in a figure-eight pattern. The direction and duration of the waggle phase of the dance relate to the distance and direction of the food source in relation to the sun's position. This highly developed method of communication allows other bees to efficiently locate resources, ensuring the strength and survival of the hive.

In this context, while mating rituals, the queen's health, or hive cleaning are all important aspects of bee life, they do not pertain to the primary function of the waggle dance. The other activities within the hive are governed by different behaviors and signals that are crucial for the colony's maintenance and reproduction. Therefore, the correct answer highlights the pivotal role of the waggle dance in resource foraging and colony sustenance.