Which of the following is a critical function of worker bees in maintaining colony health?

Worker bees play a vital role in maintaining the health and productivity of the colony, and one of their most crucial functions is nectar gathering. This activity is essential for several reasons.

First, nectar is the primary food source for honey bees, providing the carbohydrates necessary for energy. Worker bees collect nectar from flowering plants and bring it back to the hive, where it is processed into honey. This stored honey serves as a food reserve, especially during the winter months when foraging is not possible.

Additionally, nectar gathering supports the overall health of the colony by encouraging foraging behaviors and pollination of plants in the surrounding environment. Through their foraging activities, worker bees not only gather food for their hive but also contribute to the pollination of crops and wild plants, which is fundamental to the ecosystem and agriculture.

While the queen's egg-laying and honey storage are important functions within the hive, they are reliant on the worker bees' activities, particularly their foraging efforts. Drone care, while necessary for reproduction, is not directly tied to maintaining the day-to-day health of the colony as it is a seasonal role and primarily focused on mating.

In summary, nectar gathering is a critical function performed by worker bees that directly supports the colony's food supply and