Which of the following is NOT stored in the hive?

The correct answer indicates that water is not typically stored in the hive. Honeybees primarily collect nectar and pollen as their main food sources. Nectar is transformed into honey through a process of evaporation and enzyme action, and this honey is stored in the hive for food, especially during periods when foraging is not possible, such as winter.

Pollen is collected and also stored in the hive, serving as a protein source for the hive’s young bees. In contrast, water is generally not stored in the hive in significant quantities. Instead, bees collect water as needed for various hive activities, including the dilution of honey and the cooling of the hive through evaporation. Since they require water but do not store it like nectar or pollen, it is the only substance among the listed options that does not have a permanent storage presence in the hive. This understanding allows beekeepers to recognize the importance of water availability for maintaining the health and functioning of the colony.