|
Abstract
|
Honey bee pollination contributes significantly to agricultural productivity and food security. Research into honey bee health, genetics, and management practices can help optimize pollination services, leading to increased crop yields and improved quality of fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. Low reproduction level and inefficient production of Iranian colonies, resulted in importation of a variety honey bee breeds. The objective of this study was to identify effects of crossbreeding on the defensive behavior in the Iranian (Apis mellifera meda) and Carniolan (Apis mellifera carnica) bees and their hybrids. In the beginning of March 2021(the end of wintering season of colonies), eight colonies of each three bee breeds were selected randomly and uniformed based on the honey and pollen storages, number of brood frames, initial population and type of the hives (Langstroth hive). The tested colonies did not receive any chemical treatments during the experiment period. Data collection and recording of number of stings per minute and calmness score on combs were performed weekly during the spring 2021 at the Honey Bee Research Centre, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran (35.27788; 46.99562). Results indicated that Iranian honey bee (Apis mellifera meda), were at a higher level for sting number and aggressiveness, significantly(p0.05). Moreover, Carniolan and Iranian×Carniolan hybrids were more efficient in comparison of indigenous bee (Apis mellifera meda) for calmness on combs (p0.05). Estimated heterosis of crossbreeding between Iranian and Carniolan honey bees was 16.3% for aggressiveness. Indeed, while defensive behavior in honey bees is essential for their survival and colony protection, beekeepers often prefer gentler bees for their beekeeping activities. Gentle bees are less likely to exhibit aggressive behavior, reducing the risk of stings and making hive management tasks safer and more manageable. Gentle bees are typically less defensive in response to disturbances such as hive inspections or honey harvesting, which minimizes disruptions during beekeeping operations. This trait is particularly desirable for beekeepers, especially those who are less experienced or prefer to work with bees in a calm and relaxed manner. Based on high genetic diversity in Iranian honey bees, selecting for gentleness in honey bee colonies through breeding programs or queen selection can be advantageous for beekeepers, as it enhances safety and ease of management while still maintaining the essential pollination and honey production services provided by honey bees. An alternative option is the controlled crossbreeding of Iranian honey bees with gentle honey bee breeds, which can enhance the efficiency of honey bee colonies.
|