CORRELATION BETWEEN HYGIENIC BEHAVIOR AND HONEY PRODUCTION OF Apis mellifera L. (INSECTA: HYMENOPTERA)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18554/ejsvkr79Keywords:
Hymenoptera, hygiene, matrices, parasitoidAbstract
The accidental importation of African honeybees (Apis mellifera scutellata) led to the formation of a poly-hybrid population in Brazil, necessitating the development of specialized practices for managing these hives. For instance, queen replacement at strategic times, based on a decline in egg-laying and, consequently, hive productivity. In this context, hygienic behavior is important in the selection of breeding stock, as it is directly related to hive health. This behavior refers to the bees' ability to keep the hive free of parasites and dead or infected brood. Beyond the economic impact for producers, selecting hives with this trait is essential for improving pollination efficiency. Hygienic behavior, therefore, is a characteristic that contributes to hive sustainability by promoting resistance to pathogens. The objective of this study was to correlate hygienic behavior (HB) with honey production (HP) in an apiary located in the Triângulo Mineiro region, using the brood puncture method, and to guide producers in selecting breeding stock for future generations. The results demonstrated that there is no direct relationship between hygienic behavior and honey production, although maintaining a clean hive free of parasites directly contributes to bee health. Our findings indicate that this trait, in isolation, does not guarantee an increase in honey production. Thus, it is emphasized that other factors, such as genetics, queen age, environmental conditions, and proper management, influence apiary productivity.
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