What is the purpose of the pollen basket for a forager bee?

The purpose of the pollen basket, also known as the corbicula, for a forager bee is to collect and transport pollen back to the hive. Forager bees visit flowers to gather pollen, which is a crucial food source for the colony, particularly for feeding larvae. The specially adapted hind legs of these bees have a concave area surrounded by hairs, which form the pollen basket. This anatomical feature allows them to efficiently gather and carry large quantities of pollen.

Bringing pollen back to the hive supports brood development and overall colony health, as it is a protein-rich resource necessary for the growth of young bees. This role is critical for the sustainability of the hive and the reproduction of the bee population, emphasizing the importance of the pollen basket in the forager bee's activities.