Honey Bee

Honey bee, Apis mellifera on Crowpoison, Nothoscordum bivalve

The honey bee is native to regions of Europe, western Asia, and Africa purposely introduced to other parts of the world starting in the 17th century. There are currently 26 recognized subspecies of Apis mellifera where differences may range from climate tolerance to abdominal banding pattern to agricultural output in particular environments. Honey bees are social where there are three castes: queens, drones, and workers. In addition to production of honey, beeswax, and pollen, honey bees also pollinate most crops; however, honey bee introduction has pushed out native bee species in many areas. This in turn has harmed some native plants that rely on the specialization of native bees for pollination.