What do adult wasps primarily gather for energy needs?
Answer
Simple sugars
Adult wasps, particularly the sterile worker caste, are characterized by their dedication to carbohydrate gathering because they require readily available, fast-acting energy sources to power their strenuous daily tasks. These tasks encompass extensive foraging expeditions, critical nest construction efforts, and the continuous defense necessary to protect the colony structure. This energy demand is almost exclusively met through consuming simple sugars found naturally in the environment. Preferred natural sources include flower nectar and the sweet secretions, like honeydew, exuded by various plant pests such as aphids.
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