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Expert: - 11/14/2007


Question
how many years can the bee live

Answer
Dear Raslan,

Lifespan of a bee depends on the species of bee, and even its sex.  Most biologists refer to the lifespan of a colony, rather than its individuals, since a bee colony can be considered a "superorganism."  In most species of social bee, the hive lasts only one season, and the adults die off in the winter.  Eggs laid hatch in the spring, and colonies start over.

Honeybees, however, have hives that can last for many years, though the individual bees don't live that long.  The lifespan of a hardworking worker bee (sterile female) is only a few days.  The drones (males), who don't collect honey, but rather live in the hive and are fed by their sisters, live for a season, and then die.

Hope that helps.

Dana

Biology

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Dana Krempels, Ph.D.

Expertise

I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!

Experience

At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980). I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.

Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.

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