Royal jelly

Definition

A nutrient-rich secretion produced by worker honeybees to feed larvae, especially those destined to become queen bees.

Etymology

Derived from 'royal', referring to its use in queen bee development, and 'jelly', describing its gelatinous consistency.

Example

Royal jelly is crucial for the development of queen larvae in a beehive, providing them with essential nutrients.

Related Terms

• Honeybee
• Worker bee
• Queen bee
• Larvae
• Caste system

Usage Notes

Royal jelly is fed to all bee larvae in their early days, but only those destined to become queens continue to receive it beyond this initial period.