The annual amount of water?

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Correct answer: 2

In temperate climates, a well-developed production colony collects up to ~100 litres of water per year. In very dry conditions, water carriers can collect up to 5 litres of water per day. A single bee can transport about 25 mg of water per trip; therefore, approximately 40,000 flights are required to collect 1 litre of water. Moreover, water is not stored in the hive but must be supplied continuously according to the colony’s needs.

Water is essential for the basic metabolism of every individual in the colony. Nurse bees use it to produce royal jelly and brood food (for brood older than three days). Working throughout the night, they deplete the hive’s water reserves, so the colony requires water again early in the morning. This explains why water carriers usually start working at daybreak, even in cool or windy weather.

Water also enables thermal regulation through evaporation during periods of high heat and helps maintain a relative humidity of around 70% inside the hive.

Contrary to what might be expected, bees do not particularly seek out pure water sources. They often prefer stagnant puddles, muddy pools, or areas near manure pits. These water sources contain essential mineral salts (sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, manganese) required for proper enzymatic functioning.

If the apiary does not have a natural water source in the immediate vicinity, the beekeeper can install a water trough, placed outside flight paths to avoid contamination by possible droppings. The water may be supplemented with table salt (5 ‰).

To learn more:

► Die Sammlung von Wasser und dessen Speicherung
► Welches Wasser für unsere Bienen?