What is the primary function of nectar in the diet of both male and female Wool Carder Bees?

Providing carbohydrates for immediate activity and flight energy

Nectar serves the fundamental metabolic requirement for immediate energy for both sexes of the Wool Carder Bee. As a sugary liquid resource derived from flowers, nectar supplies the necessary carbohydrates that fuel all active processes during the foraging season. For the males, this is crucial for maintaining vigilance, patrolling territories, and executing aggressive defense displays against competitors. For the females, nectar provides the immediate fuel needed to sustain the rigorous work of shuttling between foraging trips—gathering enough nectar for her own upkeep while simultaneously gathering large quantities of pollen intended for the provisions of her offspring. It is the instantaneous fuel source, whereas pollen is the long-term building block.