What adaptation helps honey bees regulate hive temperature?

Bee fanning behavior is a critical adaptation that honey bees use to regulate the temperature within the hive. This behavior involves worker bees fluttering their wings rapidly, creating airflow that cools the hive's interior. This is especially important during hot weather to prevent overheating, which can be detrimental to the bees and their brood. When temperatures rise above the optimal range, fanning helps maintain a stable environment, ensuring the health and productivity of the colony.

In contrast, honey production mainly serves to provide food resources and energy for the colony, not temperature regulation. Color changes in their bodies do not significantly influence hive temperature management as bees typically do not change color in response to temperature. Hibernation is a strategy that some insects use to survive the winter months, but honey bees remain active during colder months by clustering together for warmth rather than hibernating.