What is meant by "nectar" in the context of beekeeping?

Nectar refers to the sugary liquid produced by flowering plants, which serves a crucial role in the reproductive process of plants by attracting pollinators, including bees. Bees collect nectar from flowers and then process it in their hives to create honey, making nectar fundamental to both plant reproduction and the production of honey. This interaction between bees and flowers is vital for the health of ecosystems, as it facilitates pollination, which is essential for fruit and seed production in many plants.

The other options—such as honey, which is the end product bees create from nectar; waste products, which refer to materials discarded by bees; and pollen, which is the protein-rich substance collected by bees for nutrition—each represent different aspects of beekeeping and the biology of bees but do not define nectar itself. Understanding nectar’s role helps beekeepers appreciate the sources of food for their bees and the plants they depend on for successful foraging.