Colony life cycle

The colony life cycle involves gradual changes as a colony, such as an ant or bee colony, grows and matures. Initially, new queens or founders establish a nest and reproduce. As the colony gains workers, it expands, foraging and caring for young. Over time, the colony reaches peak size, focusing on maintenance and reproduction of new queens and males. Eventually, the colony declines due to aging, resource depletion, or environmental changes, leading to a colony's decline or termination. This cycle ensures the species continues through successive generations, with each stage adapted to support growth, reproduction, and survival.