What is the first stage of a bee's life cycle?

The first stage of a bee's life cycle is the egg. In this initial phase, a fertilized egg is laid by the queen bee in individual cells of the hive. The eggs are small, oval, and typically pearly white, measuring around 1-2 mm in length. After about three days, these eggs hatch into larvae, marking the transition to the subsequent stage in the life cycle. The duration of the egg stage is crucial as it sets the foundation for the bee's development in later stages, including larva, pupa, and then the adult bee.

Understanding the life cycle's progression helps beekeepers monitor and manage the health of their colonies effectively. Each stage plays a vital role in maintaining colony structure, population growth, and the overall productivity of the hive.