What is the official insect of West Virginia?

The official insect of West Virginia is the honey bee. This designation highlights the importance of honey bees not only in the context of the state's ecosystem but also in terms of agriculture and food production. Honey bees play a critical role in pollination, which contributes significantly to the growth of crops and the overall health of natural environments.

Their selection as the official insect also reflects appreciation for their impact on local flora and the economic benefits they provide through honey production and pollination services. In promoting the honey bee as an official symbol, West Virginia acknowledges its commitment to supporting these vital insects and raises awareness about their conservation.

Other insects, while interesting and important in their own right, do not hold the same status in relation to West Virginia's agricultural and ecological landscape as the honey bee does.