What is the function of a landing board in a beehive?

The function of a landing board in a beehive is to provide a ramp for bees to enter and exit the hive more easily. This structure is typically a flat surface located at the entrance of the hive. It allows for smoother landings and takeoffs, especially for foraging bees that are returning with pollen or nectar. A well-designed landing board can also help reduce the likelihood of bees colliding with the entrance, enhancing the efficiency with which they navigate in and out of the hive.

While other options may seem plausible, they do not accurately describe the primary role of a landing board. Protecting the hive from pests is typically achieved through other design features and barriers. Storing excess honey is a function of specific frames and areas within the hive but not related to the landing board itself. Additionally, while the landing board may contribute indirectly to temperature regulation if it affects air circulation, it does not serve the purpose of directly increasing the temperature inside the hive. Therefore, option B clearly encompasses the landing board’s primary function effectively.