What is the primary role of fat bodies in honey bees?

The primary role of fat bodies in honey bees is the production and storage of reserve food material. Fat bodies are specialized tissues found in the body of bees, similar to adipose tissue in mammals. They serve as an energy reserve and are crucial for maintaining the bee's metabolic functions, especially during times when resources are scarce, such as winter or during periods of brood rearing when foraging is limited. The stored lipids and proteins in the fat bodies can be mobilized to provide sustenance when needed, allowing bees to survive through periods when food is not readily available.

While hive temperature regulation, respiration assistance, and protection against predators are important aspects of a honey bee's life and function, they are not directly attributed to the fat bodies. Instead, these roles are supported by other anatomical structures and behaviors within the hive. For example, temperature regulation is achieved through behaviors such as clustering and wing fanning.