Which component is termed the "cheek" of a honeybee?

The term "cheek" in the context of a honeybee refers specifically to the gena. The gena is the area of the head located between the compound eye and the mandible, forming the lateral part of the head. This part plays a crucial role in the overall structure and function of the bee’s head, contributing to the arrangement of sensory organs and aiding in the mechanics of feeding and foraging.

The clypeus, while also a part of the bee's head, lies at the front and is more related to the structure that supports the labrum, not the cheek area. The labrum itself functions as a lip that helps in manipulating food but does not refer to any aspect of the cheek. The flabellum is an anatomical feature found on the bee's mouthparts, again not related to the cheek. Thus, the gena being identified as the "cheek" is accurate in providing clarity on bee anatomy.