Which statement correctly reflects why Africanized honey bees are considered more dangerous than regular bees?

• A. They have a longer stinger than regular bees
• B. They are less aggressive but sting more often
• C. They are much more aggressive, sting more often and longer time
• D. They produce more venom per sting

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that danger from Africanized honey bees comes from their behavior, not from any change in the stingers or venom itself. These bees are much more defensive and react aggressively to disturbances. When a hive is disturbed, a large number of bees can swarm out quickly, defend the area intensely, and pursue a threat for a considerable distance. Because many bees sting repeatedly, a single encounter can deliver a lot more venom overall and increase the risk of severe reactions, even though the amount of venom per sting is similar to that of regular honey bees. So the statement that captures the danger best is that they are much more aggressive, sting many more times, and can continue stinging for a longer period.