DefinePK

Abstract

Background and Objective: The red dwarf honey bee (Apis florea, Fabricius) is indigenous to semi-arid tropical environments of several parts of Asia and some parts of Africa. This species is also one of the important natural and wild pollinators of these regions. Therefore, knowledge on the crop hosts and pollination potential of this honey bee is important and this study was planned to get this information. Materials and Methods: A record of the crop plants visited by this honey bee during the year round was maintained. Pollination potential of this honey bee was ascertained on the basis of its foraging behavior and abundance of the foragers on the crop plants in the study area. Results: Red dwarf honey bee visited some 38 crop plants for pollen and/or nectar and acted as an important pollinator of more than 35 crops in the semi-arid environment of northwest India. Conclusion: Red dwarf honey bee has an excellent pollination potential for more than 35 crops of semi-arid environment of northwest India. On the basis of its pollination service, this honey bee needs vigorous conservation efforts.