Beneficial garden insect collection European Honey Bee
Common Name: European honey bee
Scientific Name: Apis mellifera
Order: Hymenoptera
Horticultural situation where found: Most plants where nectar and pollen can be found. Extremely important for the pollination of backyard and commercial crops of fruit and vegetables. Probably one of the most active insect pollinators.
Method of feeding (including type of prey): Lapping mouthparts for eating nectar and pollen.
Life cycles: Complete metamorphosis – egg, larvae, pupa and adult.
Feeding stages: Larvae – royal jelly/honey and pollen. Adults – Nectar and pollen
Distinguishing features for identification: Amber to brown translucent with alternating black stripes, furry short coat. Size 1.3 cm. Gentle nature.
Commercial availability: Yes
Identification References (including page no): Plant protection 1, p 114 – 118
The above information and image was kindly donated by Werner (horticulturalist)
