What is the primary use of royal jelly in a bee colony?

The primary use of royal jelly in a bee colony is to nourish queen larvae. Royal jelly is a protein-rich substance produced by the glands of worker bees, specifically intended for feeding the larvae that will develop into queens. Unlike worker and drone larvae, which receive a different diet primarily based on pollen and honey, queen larvae are exclusively fed royal jelly throughout their development. This specialized diet allows the larvae to grow into fully developed queens, capable of reproducing and ensuring the survival and continuation of the colony. The unique composition of royal jelly, containing essential nutrients, growth factors, and vitamins, is crucial for the queen's development, ultimately influencing her fertility and overall role in the hive. While other factors play roles in the functioning of a bee colony, royal jelly's specific purpose is distinctive and vital in the creation of new queens.