Which nutrient does nectar primarily provide to bees?

Nectar serves as one of the primary food sources for bees, and it is rich in sugars, which are the main contributors to energy. When bees consume nectar, the sugars are converted into energy that fuels their activities, such as foraging, brood care, and hive maintenance. In addition to sugars, nectar contains small amounts of water, minerals, and trace compounds, but its primary role is to provide energy through carbohydrates.

While fats, proteins, and vitamins are important for a bee’s overall nutrition, they are obtained from other sources. For example, pollen is the primary source of protein for bees, which is essential for brood development and the growth of young bees. Thus, while all macronutrients play a role in bee nutrition, nectar is specifically designed to provide the energy bees need to function effectively in their roles within the hive.