Thermoregulation techniques in honey bees’ (Apis Mellifera) beehive microclimate and its similarities to our buildings

Apis mellifera – Apis, which is Latin for ‘bee’, and mellifera, which is Latin for ‘honey-bearing’ – refers to Western or European honey bees. Research shows that regardless of the ambient temperature, the in-hive microclimate of a beehive at the central brood area must be kept at the average optimum temperature of 35˚C for the colony to survive. Therefore, to survive both cold winters and hot summers, Apis mellifera will employ several heating and cooling strategies to thermoregulate their hives at the optimum temperature. Just like beehives, our buildings are designed with an envelope that is frequently viewed as the barrier that protects the internal occupied space from the impact of the external environment. We also employ similar methodologies to thermoregulate our buildings to reduce the heating and cooling load for lower energy consumption while at the same time providing thermal comfort to the occupants. This paper presents the thermoregulation techniques employed by honey bees and the similarities to our building thermal management systems, of which there are many. However, we can still learn from the thermoregulation management demonstrated by honey bees. Notably, the fact that the temperature stability of the beehive has been consistent and well-maintained regardless of the ambient climate is still something that cannot be accomplished by home builders.