What is a common characteristic of the hypo-pharyngeal glands of nurse bees affected by Nosema disease?

The hypo-pharyngeal glands of nurse bees play a crucial role in producing royal jelly, a nutrient-rich substance used to feed larvae and the queen. In bees affected by Nosema disease, a fungal infection that impacts their digestive health and overall well-being, these glands undergo significant regression. This regression can be attributed to the negative effects of the infection, as the bees struggle to maintain their usual metabolic functions and nutrition.

When nurse bees are infected with Nosema, their ability to produce royal jelly diminishes, leading to smaller and less functional hypo-pharyngeal glands. This has direct consequences on the hive's ability to rear young and sustain the queen, which can result in larger issues within the colony, such as decreased brood production and overall health.

In contrast, other options describe characteristics that do not align with the impact of Nosema disease on the hypo-pharyngeal glands. For example, the glands cannot be larger than normal or develop faster, as the disease clearly impairs their functioning. Likewise, being identical to those of healthy bees would ignore the significant physiological changes that occur as a result of infection. Therefore, the regression of the hypo-pharyngeal glands is a distinct and notable reaction to the stress and harmful effects of Nose