What does "ventral" refer to in the context of bee anatomy?

In the context of bee anatomy, "ventral" refers specifically to the underside of the bee. This term is derived from Latin, where "ventralis" means pertaining to the belly or underside. In anatomical terminology, "ventral" is contrasted with "dorsal," which refers to the upper side. Understanding this distinction is crucial, especially in entomology and beekeeping, as it helps in accurately describing the orientation and features of bees when discussing their anatomy, behavior, or health conditions. Thus, referring to the underside is the appropriate interpretation of the term "ventral" as it relates to bees.