What is the maturation time for worker bees from egg to adult?

The maturation time for worker bees from egg to adult is approximately 21 days. This development process includes several distinct stages: the egg stage lasts about 3 days, followed by the larval stage which typically spans around 6 days, and then the pupal stage occurs for about 12 days. By the end of this 21-day period, the worker bee emerges as an adult.

This timeline is crucial for understanding the lifecycle of bees and how they contribute to the hive's functioning. Knowing the maturation period enables beekeepers to anticipate hive dynamics, such as workforce changes and colony growth, which can directly affect management practices and hive health.