Some bees collect resin to build their hives because this substance, called propolis, has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help protect the colony against microbes and predators.
Some bees collect plant resin, also known as propolis, because it offers many practical advantages for the hives they build. First of all, the resin is naturally antimicrobial and antifungal: it protects the colony against bacteria, fungi, and diseases. Additionally, propolis easily fills gaps and cracks in the hive, reinforcing the structure, protecting against wind and rain, and preventing the intrusion of insects or small predators. Some bees even use it to "embalm" intruders that are too large to be removed from the hive, thus preventing these bodies from rotting in place. It is somewhat of a multifunctional cement that these insects gather directly from nature to keep their home healthy and strong.
The most well-known bees that use resin are the honeybees (Apis mellifera), which use it to produce the famous propolis. Some wild bees, such as several species of stingless bees from the genus Melipona, also collect resin to build and protect their nests. These bees mainly live in tropical and subtropical regions, where trees produce abundant resin. A few solitary bees, such as certain species from the genera Megachile or Osmia, sometimes exploit resin to reinforce and waterproof their individual nests.
The resin, which bees transform into propolis, truly acts as a versatile natural cement. Bees use it to seal small cracks or openings in their hive, thus creating an effective barrier against wind, rain, and even certain parasites or predators. Thanks to the antimicrobial properties of the resin, propolis provides effective sanitary protection, limiting the proliferation of microbes and promoting hygiene at the heart of the hive. Its sticky and solid texture also strengthens the entire structure, making it more resilient and durable. In short, it’s a bit like their miracle "all-purpose glue."
A brief overview: bees first locate resin-rich plant sources, mainly on buds, bark, or tree wounds. Then, they scrape the resin using their mandibles, sometimes mixing it with a bit of saliva to soften it. Once collected, this sticky resin is transported to the hive secured on their hind legs. When they arrive home, the worker bees receive this material, mix it with their saliva secretions and wax, and then form a moldable paste that will harden upon exposure to air. Quite clever, right?
Bees particularly appreciate resins from certain trees, including poplars, firs, and pines. These resins contain natural compounds such as terpenes and flavonoids, known for their incredible antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some tropical bees also collect resin from more exotic plants, like shrubs of the Clusia genus or certain varieties of Eucalyptus, because they provide a very effective barrier against microbes and parasites that could invade the hive.
Propolis, a substance made by bees from plant resin, has very strong antifungal and antibacterial properties. This is why it is often used in natural medicine to treat minor wounds and boost the immune system.
Bees don't only collect resin for the strength of their hives: they also use it to mummify intruders that are too large to be expelled, thereby preventing their decomposition inside the nest.
The color and smell of propolis can vary greatly depending on the type of plant from which the resin is derived. This is why, depending on the regions, this substance can be edible, medicinal, or even used in cosmetics.
Some species of stingless bees (meliponine bees) build their hives almost entirely with plant resins mixed with wax. These nests are more resistant to climatic variations and predator attacks.
Yes, indirectly: bees can influence plant biodiversity by collecting and dispersing plant resins, thereby stimulating the production of new protective secretions and encouraging trees to produce additional resins. This interaction is likely to promote the proliferation of certain plant species over others, thereby affecting the local balance of biodiversity.
The presence of propolis in a hive can be easily detected by its dark brown to yellowish color, its sticky texture, and its characteristic resinous smell. It is often visible at the entrances of the hive or in the cracks sealed by the bees.
Beeswax is produced by the bees themselves through specific glands located under their abdomen. It is primarily used to create the structure of the honeycomb. Resin, on the other hand, is collected directly from trees and transformed into propolis by the bees. The resin is used to strengthen the hive, protect it against microbes and parasites, and fill cracks or small holes in the hive.
No, not all bee species collect resin. Some species, like honeybees (Apis mellifera) and certain stingless bees (Trigona), are known to actively collect and use plant resin. However, other species primarily rely on natural wax to build their nests.
Yes, propolis has several beneficial properties for humans. It notably has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory virtues. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement or natural product in dermatological treatments, oral health issues, and to strengthen the immune system.
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