Which type of bee is known for being hardy and able to survive long, cold winters?

The German bee is recognized for its hardiness and adaptability to cooler climates, making it particularly suitable for regions with long, cold winters. This bee species has traits that allow it to conserve heat within the hive and maintain a robust colony structure, which is crucial for survival during harsh winter months. German bees tend to display a strong inclination to cluster tightly, preserving warmth and reducing energy consumption in colder weather.

In contrast, the Italian bee, known for its gentleness and prolific honey production, may not be as resilient in extremely cold conditions. While the Caucasian bee is also capable of handling colder climates reasonably well and has some similar traits, it is generally not as hard-wearing as the German bee in severe winter conditions. African bees, known for their aggressive behavior and swarming tendencies, are more suited to warmer climates and do not display the same winter survival capabilities. Thus, the German bee stands out for its ability to thrive in cold environments, making it the correct answer to this question.