Which gland is responsible for producing sex attractant pheromones in honey bees?

The mandibular gland is responsible for producing sex attractant pheromones in honey bees. These pheromones play a crucial role in mating and reproductive behavior, particularly in queen bees. The specific pheromones produced by the mandibular gland during the queen's mating flights attract drones, facilitating the mating process necessary for the continuation of the colony.

Each type of gland in bees has its specific functions. For example, the hypopharyngeal gland primarily produces food for larvae and nursing bees, while the wax glands are involved in producing beeswax for constructing honeycomb. The median gland is known for secreting pheromones as well, but the specific task of producing sex attractant pheromones is distinctly attributed to the mandibular gland. Understanding the role of these glands is essential for grasping the complex social behaviors and communication methods within bee colonies.