Conversion of protein from supplements into protein of hemolymph and fat bodies in worker honey bees (Apis mellifera L)

Abstract

Adequate supplementation or replacement of pollen is necessary for maintaining healthy honey bee colonies during periods with limited pollen. Different supplemental protein diets could be metabolized in different ways by bees. We compared how protein supplements elaborated with free amino acids, with a soy-based diet, and with pollen, influence protein stores within individual honey bees. Caged bees were fed with one of three diets, and measurements were made based on protein content of hemolymph and fat bodies. The results show that these diets were metabolized in different way by bees. Bees fed with the free amino acid diet had significantly more proteins in hemolymph than bees fed with soya patty and pollen as they aged. The major amount of protein transported into the hemolymph by 27-day-old bees fed with free amino acid diet promoted the development of wax glands, and probably, it was the cause of a reduced storage of protein in fat bodies. Overall, our results suggest a connection between diets and physiological condition of honey bees.