Queen cells are unique structures in a beehive, designed specifically for rearing new queen bees. These peanut-shaped, downward-facing wax cells are constructed by worker bees only when necessary—either to replace an aging queen (supersedure), prepare for swarming, or in emergency situations. Their placement varies: swarm cells are typically found on the comb's edges, while supersedure and emergency cells appear on the comb's surface where worker brood is present. Understanding their location and purpose is critical for beekeepers managing hive health and reproduction.
Key Points Explained:
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Definition & Purpose of Queen Cells
- Queen cells are specialized, peanut-shaped wax structures built exclusively for rearing new queens.
- They are temporary and constructed only under specific conditions:
- Swarming: To produce a new queen before the old one leaves with a swarm.
- Supersedure: To replace an underperforming or aging queen.
- Emergency: When the existing queen dies unexpectedly, workers convert a worker larva into a queen.
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Physical Characteristics
- Shape & Orientation: Near-vertical with a downward-facing opening, resembling a peanut shell.
- Material: Made of beeswax, like regular brood cells, but larger (20–25 mm long) to accommodate queen development.
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Locations in the Hive
- Swarm Cells: Built along the comb's lower or side edges, signaling impending swarming.
- Supersedure/Emergency Cells: Located on the comb's face, often amid worker brood. Emergency cells are hastily modified from existing worker cells.
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Beekeeper Implications
- Swarm Prevention: Identifying edge-located swarm cells early helps manage hive splitting.
- Hive Health: Surface-located supersedure cells may indicate queen failure, requiring intervention.
- Queen Rearing: Beekeepers may use queen cage systems to introduce new queens safely.
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Why Placement Matters
- Edge cells (swarming) reflect colony expansion instincts.
- Surface cells (supersedure/emergency) highlight colony-driven corrections to queen quality or loss.
By recognizing these distinctions, beekeepers can better interpret hive behavior and take timely actions to maintain colony stability.
Summary Table:
| Type of Queen Cell | Purpose | Location in Hive | Beekeeper Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swarm Cells | Prepares for colony division | Lower/side edges of comb | Monitor for swarm prevention |
| Supersedure Cells | Replaces failing queen | On comb surface amid worker brood | Assess queen performance |
| Emergency Cells | Rapid queen replacement | Modified from worker brood cells | Check for unexpected queen loss |
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