Insights into nesting behavior of red dwarf honeybee (Apis florea) in tropical thorn forest of central Sindh, Pakistan
摘要
Pakistan is home to five species of honeybees: red dwarf (Apis florea), rock (Apis dorsata), Asian hive (Apis cerana), Western (Apis mellifera), and Himalayan giant (Apis laboriosa). The red dwarf bee is the most widespread species of honeybee in the Indus Valley. However, understanding their nesting sites, height, and orientation is essential in terms of ecological preservation. Therefore, in this study, a 1-year survey was conducted to investigate the nesting behavior of red dwarf honeybees in the tropical thorn forest region of the Sindh Province of Pakistan. The findings demonstrated that (1) the maximum number of colonies was found during the spring season while the lowest in autumn; (2) the most preferred height of nests was recorded at 0–1 m (38.2%) above the ground; (3) this species prefers to build nests on clumps of giant reeds (Arundo donax; 31.8%), followed by the miswak tree (Salvadora persica; 18.6%), saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissima; 15.1%), kikar (Acacia sp.; 14.9%), neltuma juliflora (Prosopis juliflora; 10.3%), karira (Capparis decidua; 3.6%), tree cotton (Gossypium arboreum; 2.9%), and lemon tree (Citrus limon; 1.6%), and other structures (hedges; 1.2%); and (4) the majority of nests were noted at the direction of northeast–southwest. Thus far, this is the first investigation in Pakistan regarding the nesting ecology of red dwarf honeybees. The findings will provide crucial information to researchers, honey collectors, and wildlife management departments for developing effective strategies to conserve and protect this species’ population.