Jul 6, 2000 - Lin et ai. (1977) reported 20-24 per cent moisture in Taiwan honeys. ...... Towarzystiva Naukowego Metarrmtyka-Fizuka Ch^muka. 20(2): 177-.
STUDIES ON THE NESTING BEHAVIOUR AND HONEY QUALITY OF WILD APIS SPECIES AROUND HISAR, HARYANA By M. SARFRAZ KHAN Dissertation submitted to the Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of:
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY in ENTOMOLOGY
College of Agriculture Chaudhary Charau SiBgh Haryana Agricultural University HISAR 2000
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT I sfiaffremam tfiatt^uffy indeBtedto aUtfmse iearnedsouis, ^rmn/n and unsown hands wHo dmctCy or indirectty motivated me to acAiet/e my goaf.
I tafy the opportunity to egress my deep sense of indeBtedness and gratitude to f?r. M,% fHffifuGkf Trofessor, department of "Entomology, my major aipisor, for his aBieguidance, constructim criticism, valuaBk suggestions and unmaPering encouragement throughout the period of tny research wor^, I am highly indeSted to the other memBers of my adpisory committee, 'Dr. S-S. 9^resh, Trofessor (^ntomofogy), *Dr. (Mrs,) 3eena 'JQimari, Mssistant Residue Mnafyst, 2?r. Suneel % Sharnm, Scientist (horticulture), ©r. 5^.f^, Tripathi, ^ofessor (Tlant Pathology), 0r. ^.2*5. *Baghel, Scientist (9{ematology), 2>r. S.C gupta, Associate Trofessor (Math. & Stat,} and ^n !f{,0, X^ushi^ Scientist (9{oney Bees)for their constant support, mluaBle suggestions and affectionate encouragement. J egress my heartiest thanks to 'Dr.. 9d. XhaB.iruddin, Thytochemist, ©r. S.% Sharnm, Scientist (^oney Betsjr^r. fl.% majaj, Trofessor (9{ematology), 2>r, Saleem Siddiqui, Jlssociate (Professor (^rticulture), 'Dr. fEfE Qupta, Associate Trofessor (Tknt Tathology) and Dr. T,S. ^athpal, Trofessor (Testicide !l(esidue Analysis) for their Brotherly advice during course of this study. It gives me immense pleasure to record nn^ sincere than/(s to (Dr, %% %ashyap, Trofessor CEntomology), Dr. 'B.S. Dahiya, Trofessor and ^ad (SeedScience andlecfkohgy), Tr. 9l.%.'Bansal,Associate Trofessor (farm Tower Machinery), Shri SslaseemMmed, IMS andDr.S-S. Jhu^har, Sr. 'MchnicalMssistant, for their constant encouragement and help at critimlstages duriiy the. study period. I am than^ul to the Trofessor and Mead, T>epartment of Entomology and other faculty memBers for their ^ind cooperation.
I feeCpkaswre to tfum^mf friends 0rs. S.% Takuja, Msfiwani Smmnder, ^amnder, %ajesk, yo^esd, l^itfe/o %% ^rom, SuSfmsd, O.T, Chug, ^isfkn, Sudan and X^^esfifor tfkir enmuraging company and timety fiefp. I am a(so tkin^uf to Sftri O.T, O^adatf, "BMe 3(fflm, Tinju and SfknfiarfoT Mpm£ in (omting the fittk Bee cofonies during course of study. 1 am short of words to e?(press my ardent sentiments and kve to my tmiing mother, sisters, brothers and other famity memSers for their siknt wishes and morat support. I witCSefaUii^ in my duty if I do not e?(press my heartfeft gratitude and hve to my Behpedufife Sha^eik, daughter Shem, son Suhait and Mskm 'Bhai who too^ ^^^ry pain andgape me strength to achiepe this goaf, • / am than^uf to Mr, SuBhash Chandra for his ^nd cooperation during thetypirigof this manuscript. I e?(tend my sincere thans^ to the Centre of advanced Studies at the department of Tntomobgy, CCS !HMl,Misar under the auspices of ICMSiforproPidingthefiminciafandtechnicatsupfort during the course of these investyations. Hisar May{s:^2000
[M. SARFRAZ KHAN|
CERTIFICATE - I
This is to certify that this dissertation entitled, "Studies on the nesting behaviour and honey quality of wild Apis species around Hisar, Haryana", submitted for the degree of Ph.D., in the subject of Entomology of the Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, is a bonafide research work carried out by M. Sarfraz Khan under my supervision and that no part of this dissertation has been submitted for any other degree. The assistance and help received during the course of investigation have been fully acknowledged.
IH.IL ROHILLA] MAJOR ADVISOR PROFESSOR Department of Entomology CCS Haryana Agricultural University Hisar-125 004, India
CERTIFICATE - II
This is to certify that this dissertation entitled, "Studies on the nesting behaviour and honey quality ofwildvij^w species around Hisar, Haryana", submitted by M, Sarfraz Khan to the Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Ph.D., in the subject of Entomology, has been approved by the Student's Advisory Committee after an oral examination on the same in collaboration with an External examiner.
MAJOR ADVISOR
A
\
HEAi/oF THE DEPARlmENT
DEAN, POSTGRADUATE STUDJ
EXTERNAL EXAMINER
CONTENTS
1
INTRODUCTION
2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
3
MATERIAL AND METHODS
4
- RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
5
SUMMARY LITERATURE CITED ANNEXURES
^
1 -3 4 -36 37 - 6 0 61 •• 153 154 - 160 •
1 -
xxlx .
I - IV
LIST OF PLATES Plate
Description
Between the pages
1
Aggregation of ^. dorsata colonies on Bombax ceiba (left)
62-63
2
A. dorsata colony touching ground, nested on Moms aiba (right)
62-63
3
Queen cells of J. dorsata
86-87
4
A. jlorea comb showing various features
111-112
5
A. Jlorea nest on folding cot
114-115
6
Queen cells of/4,/7or«a
123-124
7
Morphotypes of poUen recovered from A. dorsata ^oney
130-131
8
Morphotypes of pollen recovered from A.florea honey
130-131
9
Morphotypes of pollen recovered from ^. me////er weight. Sucrose: The reagents required for determining total reducing Sttgars, were used for determining the sucrose content of honey samples. Prom the stock honey solution, 100 ml was taken in a 150 ml conical flask
54 ?iiid one ml of concentrated hydrochloric acid was added and heated to near boiling and kept over n i ^ t at room temperature. TH s inverted honey solution was neutralized with sodium carbonate by using pH papers. The total reducing sugars were determined by following the titration as described earlier under total reducing sugars. This gave the total reducing sugars after inversion. The sucrose content (per cent by weight) of the honey was calculated by subtracting tiie reducing sugars before inversion (per cent by weight) from reducing sugars after inversion (per cent by weight) multiplied by 0.95. Dextrose: For determining the dextrose content of honey, the following reagents were used ; —
Iodine solution - 0.05 N
—
Sodium hydroxide solution - 0.1 N
—
Sulphuric acid - concentrated
—
Standard sodium thiosulphate solution - 0.05 N
Preparation of the reagents Iodine solution - 0.05 N: For preparing iodine solution of 0.05 N strength, 6.35 g of iodine was dissolved in 30 ml distilled water and further diluted with distilled water to 1000 ml. Sodium hydroxide solution - O.I N: For preparing sodium hydroxide solution of 0.01 N strength, 4 g of soldium hydroxide was dissolved in 1000 ml distilled water. Sodium thiosulphate solution - 0.05 N: For preparing sodium thiosulphate solution of 0.05 N strength, 6.2 g of sodium thiosulphate was dissolved in 1000 ml distilled water.
55 Procedure for titration: From the stock honey solutiori, 50 ml solution was pipetted in a 250 ml stoppered flask. To this, 40 ml of iodine solution and 25 ml of sodium hydroxide solution were added. The flask was stoppered and kept in dark for 20 minutes. It was then acidified with 5 ml of sulphuric acid and the excess of iodine was titrated quickly against standard sodium thiosulphate solution. The volume of standard sodium thiosulphate solution (S) required for titration of excess of iodine was noted for each sample. A blank was run using 50 mi of water instead of honey solution. The volume of sodium thiosulphate solution (B) required for the blank was noted. Calculation for determining approximate dextrose: Approximate dextrose content (per cent by weight) was calculated by following formula: (B-S) x 0.004502 x 100 Approximate dextose,per cent by weight (w) = — a Where, B = Volume of sodium thiosulphate solution required for the blank S ~ Volume of sodium thiosulphate solution required for the sample a = Weight of the honey taken for the test Levulose: The true levulose contents of the honey were determined as detailed I elow : Approximate levulose. per cent by'weight (x)
Approximate total reducing sugars (%) -w = 0.925
.
True dextrose, per ceat by weight (y) = w -0.012 x True levulose. per cent by weight (z) =
Approximate reducing sugar (%)-y 0.925
True reducing sugar, per (»nt by weiglit« y + z
56 (iii) Lcvulose-Dexfrose Ratio (L/D ratio): The levulose-dextrose ratio of the honey samples was deterauned by simply dividing the trae levulose (per cent by weight) with tree dextrose (per cent by weight). (iv) Acidity: For deteraiining the acidity (as formic acid) of the honey the foUowiag reagents were used : Standard sodium hydroxide solution - 0,05 N —
Phenolphthalein indicstor solution
Procedure: The honey sample (10 g) was taken in 150 ml titration flask and dissolved in 75 ml of distilled water. It was thoroughly mixed and titrated against standard sodium hydroxide solution using 4 to 6 drops of neutralised phenolphthalein solution. The pink colour of the indicator persisted at least for 10 seconds. A blank of distilled water and indicator was run to correct the volume of standard sodium hydroxide solution used. Calculation: The acidity (as formic acid) of the homey samples was calculated by the foOov^dng formula: 0.23 X V Acidity (as formic acid ), per cent by weight = W Where, V=
Corrected volume of sodium hydroxide solution required for titration, W = Weight (g) of the sample taken for the test.
(v) Fiehe's Test : The Fiehe's test was preformed for the experimental honey samples using the following reagents : Resorcinol solution - 1 g of resublimed resorcinol was dissolved in 100 ml hydrochloric acid (sp. gr. 1.18 to 1.19). —
Ether-sulphuric ether
57 Procedure: About 5 g of honey sample was taken in mortar and mixed with 10 ml of ether by using a pestle. The ether extract was decanted into a porcelain dish. The extraction was repeated twee in the same manner and the extract was collected in the same dish which was left at room temperature to dry and thereafter a large drop of freshly prepared resorcinol solution was added. Instant appearance of cherry red colour indicate the positive reaction while the faint pink colour disappearing after a short time or yellow to salmon pink colour indicated a negative reaction. (vi) Mineral cotnents: For determining the minerals viz., N, P. K, Zn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Mn, Bo, Pb and Cd in the honey samples of different Apis species, 2,0 g of honey was weighed and digested in a diacid mixture of HNOjand H2S0^ in the ratio of 1:9 on hot plate. The digested samples were diluted to 50 ml with distilled water and analysed for different elements as mentioned below: Hitettgcji: Nitrogen was determined by Nessler's reagent method (Lindner, 1944). Phosphorus: Phosphorus was determined by Vando-molybdate yellow colour method (Koening and Johnson, 1942). Potassium was determined by flame photometer whereas Zn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Mn Bo, Pb and Cd content in honey samples were determiend through atomic absorption spectrophotometer. (vii) Hydroxy methyl furfural (HMF): The hydroxy methyl furfural is the indicator of aging and unfitness of honey for consumption. It is required to be determined only when Fiehe's test is positive. Since, in
58 the present studies, the Fiehe's test was negative in all the cases, therefore, the HMF content was not w^raated to be determined. Hence, the HMF determination was not taken up. 3,3
Monitoring of insecticide residue in honeys A total of 39 honey samples, comprising 12 each of^. dorsata and
A. florea and 15 of ^. melUfera, in two replicates were analysed for the presence of organochlorine insecticides while 21 honey samples comprising, 7 each of three/4/7W species, in two replicates were analysed for the presence of organophosphate and carbamate insecticides in the Pesticide Residue Laboratory of the Department of Entomology, CCS HAU, Hisar. The insecticide residues were determined by gas-liquid chromatography (GLC) following Chawla and Goyal (1988) with minor modifications. 3.3.1 Extraction and clean np A representative 10 g honey of each sample was diluted in 100 ml of 4 per cent aqueous solution of sodium sulphate which was extracted thrice witii ethyl acetate using 40, 30, 30 ml, respectively in a one litre separating funnel. At first extraction , the separating funnel was shaken gently for 30-35 seconds and the gases thus formed inside the funnel were released carefully by opening the stopper. The process of shaking and releasing gases led to the formation of two layers of the content, which were collected separately in beakers. The lower layer was again put into the separating funnel and 30 ml ethyl acetate was added to it for second extraction. The separating funnel was shaken slightly vigorous for 30-35
59 seconds and the gases were released. Again two layers were formed and the upper layer was collected in the same beaker containing the first extraction while lower layer was collected in a separate beaker which was again put into the separating funnel for third extraction with 30 ml ethyl acetate. This time the separating funnel was shaked still more vigorously and the upper layer was collected in the previous beaker containing first and second extraction and the lower layer was discarded at this stage. The emulsified content of the first, second and third extraction in the beaker was transferred into centrifuge tube and centrifuged at 3000 rpm for 5 minute to break the emulsion. The organic phase was filtered through 5 cm layer of anhydrous sodium sulphate in a 100 ml solvent bottle. The filtrate was concentrated in vacuuo to 5 ml for analysis. 3.3.2 Analysis or determinatkn of residues The determination of insecticide residues was carried out by employing a Hewlett Packard 5890 A gas liquid chromatograph (GLC) using a multi residue method standardised in the laboratory (Rathi et ah, 1997). For organochlorines electron capture detector (ECD) Ni ®' and for organophosphates and carbamates, nitrogen phosphorus detector (NPD) column were used. The retention time, amount and area (in standard) are given in Annexure-I fhe GLC papameters were : ECD; capillary column SPB-5 [bonded poly (5% dipheEyl/95% dimethyl ) silicone] 30 m x 0.32 mm id X 0.25 fi m film thickness; temperature; column; 150°C (5 min), -> S^C min' -^90*'C (2 min)-*15°C min"' ->280°C (10 min), injection port 280°C and detector 300°C, Nj gas flow rate, 60 ml min'', splitless and split (ratio 1:10) attenuation 6 and range 2. NPD; methyl silicons megabore
60 colttmn, 10 m X 0.53 m id x 2,65 |im film thickness. Temperature column, 100«C (I miii)->10«C inin-'^200**C->20*C min->-^260«C (3niin), injection port 25b*'C, detector 275*'C, gas flow rates : N^ 18, H^ 1.5 and zero air 135 ml min•^ 3.3.3 Recovery The honey samples were fortified at the level of 0.5 and 1 ppm. The recovery for organochlorines varied from 80-90%, organophosphates 90-95 per cent and carbomates 87 per cent. The calculation for per cent recovery was made by subtracting peak height of each insecticide obtained in control samples from the corresponding peak height of that insecticide recorded in fortified samples.
CHAPTER - 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The results of the present investigation have been presented along with discussion in this chapter under different heads according to the objectives of the study. 4.1
Nesting behaviour of ^. dorsata and A. florea
4.1.1 A, dorsata These studies were conducted on 197 colonies which included 129 terrestial and 68 arboreal colonies. The A. dorsata honey bees constructed single comb either on the terrestrial support or on arboreal support. The comb was attached longiluTiiiially to the underside of the support with vertical downward extension. Majority of colonies (88,0%) constructed their combs at open places exposed to direct sunlight at least for some time of the day. Although 12 per cent of the colonies did not receive direct sun rays throughout the day. Such colonies were observed on both terrestrial as well as arboreal supports inside the thick canopy of Mangifera indica and Cassia samia trees. 4.1.1,1 Aggregation behaviour The A. dorsata colonies were found either singly at one site or in a group of several separated colonies at same site. However, a few colonies
62 were observed to construct their comb in the vicinity of each other on terrestrial support as well as on arboreal support either on separate branches or on the same branch. Maximum of 9 colonies of A. dorsata in a single tree of Bombax ceiba were observed at a time during the course of study (Plate I). The aggregation of ^. dorsata colonies recorded during the present studies was not so gregarious as reported earlier by several workers (Butani, 1950; Linduaer, 1957; S i n ^ , 1962; Deodikar et ah, 1977; Koeniger and Koeniger, 1980; \^kramath, 1989 and Soman and Kshirsagar, 1991). They observed 22 to 156 colonies/site. However, Morse and Laigo (1969) in Philippines and Ahmed and Abbas (1985) in Andaman and Nicobar islands did not find p-egarious behaviour of ^4. dorsata. The variation in a^regation might be due to cUfferences in the vegetation, floral abundance and the climatic conditions. 4.1.1.2 Oiolcefsr nest sapport The A. ebrsata bees constructed their comb on both terrestrial as well as arboreal supports, (a)
Terrestrial Out of 197 colonies studied, 129 (65.5%) colonies used terrestrial
support for comb construction (Table 3). Of these 76 colonies were observed during 1997-98 and 53 colonies during 1998-99 on and around the same sites. The terrestrial supports included residential and nonresidential buildings. .There appeared to be no preference for nesting among residential and non-residential terrestrial sites since almost equal number (50.4 and 49.6%) of colonies were recorded on these sites (Table 4).
^^SK^.:; .1
•
^-/fi K'^.
^ •
*:^-^
Plate 1.
Aggregation of ^. dorsata colonies on Bombax ceiba (left)
Plate 2.
A. dorsata colony touching ground, nested on Morus alba (right)
63
Colony population of A. dorsata on terrestrial and arboreal supports Colony population during Support
1997-98
1998-99 #
%
Total #
%
Terrestrial
76
65.5
53
65.4
129 65.5
Arboreal
40
34.5
28
34.6
68
Total
116
TaWc 4.
81
34.5
197
Colony distribution of Apis dorsata on teirestrial supports Colony population during
Support 1997-98
1998-99
Total
#
%
#
%
#
%
Residential
36
47.4
29
54.7
65
50.4
Non-residential
40
52.6
45.3
64
49.6
Total
76
_53
129
64 (1)
Angle of the supporting structures for comb construction All the colonies used plain horizontal underside surfaces of the
weather sheds and the extensions of the terrestrial sites, for raising their combs, (b)
Arboreal Out of 197 colonies observed during 1997-98 and 1998-99, 34.5
per cent selected arboreal supports for nesting as against 65.5 per cent on terrestrial support (Table 3) indicating the preference for terrestrial support. Nandi and Mahabal (1974) also reported more combs (78,5%) on buildings than on trees. However, Deodikar et ah (1977), Ahmed and Abbas (1985), Reddy et al. (1986), Reddy andReddy (1987,1989) and Vikramath (1989) observed more colonies on arboreal supports than on buildings. The differences can be attributed to the availability of the desired nesting sites and supports. (I)
Plant species utilizeil for nesting — The A. dorsata honey bees cosntructed their combs in trees of
varying heights and nature. A total of 18 plant species (8 of evergreen, 6 of semi-deciduous and 4 of deciduous nature) harboured the nests (Table 5). The semal tree, Bomhax ceiba was the most preferred plant species where 30,0 per cent colonics made their combs during 1997-98 and 35.7 per cent during 1998-99, The pooled data for both the nesting seasons revealed that maximum colonies (32.3%) were observed on B. ceiba followed by Bucafyptus species where 14.7 per cent colonies constructed their combs. During 1997-98 and 1998-99 nesting seasons, 40 arid 28 colonies were formed on and around the same arboreal sites.
65 ^«ble 5-
Colony distribution of Apis dorsata on different plant species Number of colonies during
plant species
Common/ • local name
Total
1997-98 #
%
#
%
#
%
(a) Evergreen Kasood Safeda Silver oak Balamkhira Mango Moleshri Sukkchain Royal palm
01 05
2.5 12.5
01 05
3.6 17.8
01 04 01 01 02
2.5 10.0
02 03
7.7 10.7
Semal Amaltash Gulmohar Mulberiy
12 01 02 01
30.0 2.5 5.0 2.5
10 01 01
35.7 3.6 3.6
-
-
Acacia nilotica Kikar Albezzia lebbek Siras Ailanthus excelsa Makaneem Azadirachta indicaNeem Dilbergia sissoo' Shisham Ficus religiosa Peepal
02 01 01 01 01 02
5.0
_
.
Total
40
Cassia samia Eucalyptus spp. Crevillea wbusta Kijelia pinnata Mcngifera indica Mimusops elengi pongamia glabera Roystonea mgia
2.6 5.0
02 2.9 10 14.7 01 1.5 03 4.4 07 10.3 01 1.5 01 1.5 0.2 2.9
(b) Deciduons Bombax ceiba Cassia fistula Delonix regia Morus alba
22 02 03 01
^ dt^J
2.9 4.4 1.5
(c) Semi-decidaons
^ « -J
2.5 2.5 2.5 5.0
01 01 01 -
02
3.6 3,6 3.6 .
7.1
02 02 02 02 01 04 68
28 tt
2.9 2.9 2.9 2.9 1.5 5.9
66 The choice for a particular, plant species was also reported by Chakrabarti and Chamdhari (1972) where they observed large number of colonies on Exoecaria agaUocha (39.0%) and Avicennia species (16.0%). Deodikar et al (1977) and Ahmed and Abbas (19B5), however, did not find any preference to a particular plant species. The preference for a particular arboreal site appears to be influenced by its suitability depending on height, supporting branches and the canopy. (ii)
Nature of nest siipportiiig plant species The nest supporting trees could be conveniently grouped into three
categories, i.e., evergreen, semi-deciduous and deciduous. A maximum of 41,2 per cent colonies selected deciduous trees closely followed by evergreen trees (39.7%) and there were only 19.1 per cent colonies on semi-deciduous trees (Table 6). There is no information available in the literature on such lines. (Hi) Selection ©f attachment site in a tree The comb attachment site for most of the arboreal colonies were the structures of good strength like the main branches or the sub-branches which could also provide sufficient protectif.n to the colony against rain and winds. However, few colonies selected 'hin branches or twigs as on Cassia samia and leaf peduncle on Royal Palm. Such weak structures did not provide good support and protraction to the colonies against rains, winds, etc. One colony was also seen attached to the base of the main trunk of the tree, Morus alba having a slanting angle with the ground and in fact, the colony touched the ground (Plate 2).
67
Table 6.
Colony distribution of Apis dorsata on different types of arboreal supports. Colony population during
Support 1997-98 #
% .
1998-99 U %
Total
Evergreen trees
16
40.0
11
39.3
27
39,7
Semi-deciduous trees
8
20.0
5
17.9
13
19.1
Deciduous trees
16
40.0
12
42.9
28
41.2
Total
40
28
68
68 (Iv)
Girth of the supporting structure of the arboreal colonies The A. dorsata colonies used supporting structure of varying girth
ranging from 12 to 75 cm (n-38). On an average, the girth of such supporting structures was 36.5 cm, Reddy and Reddy (1989) also observed combs on branches having diameter more than 6 cm. (v)
Angle of the supporting structure in arboreal colonies The A. dorsata colonies attached their combs to slanting branches
and sub-branches of trees whose angle with respect to tree trunk and main branch varied from 100 to 145° with a mean of 126.3° (n=36). The angle of the main trunk supporting^, dorsata colony in Morm alba, with respect to the ground was 60°. Observations of colony formation on slatning branches made by Morse and Laigo (1969) and Chakrabarti and Chaudhuri (1972) are in support with the present findings. However, Ahmed and Abbas (1985) and Reddy and Reddy (1989) observed niore combs on horizontal bramches. 4.1,1.3 fielght of the A dorsata comb from ground level The data on the height of comb from ground level in terrestrial as well as arboreal colonies during 1997-98 and 1998-99 were analysed and are presented in tables 7, 8 and 9. (a)
Height of the combs on terrestrial supports On terrestrial supports, the J . dorsata honey bees made their conibs
at heights between 5 to 30 m form ground level. The most preferred height for comb construction was between 10 to 15 m where 64.5 and 66.0 per cent colonies made their combs during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively.
^•'•'?"
•tTabiQ 7. KJ-
69 Distribution of Apis dorsata colonies on terrestrial and arboreal supports in relation to height from ground level (1997-98 ) Distribution of colonies on
Height from ground level (m)
Total
Arboreal support
Terrestrial support
Availability of supports
#
%
#
%
0.0
03
07.5
03
2.6
Plenty
11
27.5
. 13
11.2
Plenty
49
2.6 64.4
16
40.0
65
56.0
Plenty
15.0-20.0
19
25.0
10
25.0
29
25.0
Plenty
20.0-25.0 25.0-30.0
00 00
0,0
00
0.0
00
0.0
None*
7.9
00
0.0
06
5.2
A few
Total
76
#
%
0.0-5.0
00
5.0-10.0
02
10,0-15-0
116
40
* Terrestrial Tables.
Distribution of Apis dorsata colonies on terrestrial and arboreal supports in relation to height from ground level (1998-99) Distribution of colonies on
Height from ground level (m)
Terrestrial support
0.0-5.0
00
0.0
01
5.0-10.0
01
1.9
10.0-15.0
35
15.0-20.0 20.0-25.0 25.0-30.0 Total * Terrestrial
#
%
Arboreal support U . %
.
Total
Availability of supports
#
%
3.6
01
1.2
Plenty
08
28.6
09
11.1
Plenty
66.0
09
32.1
44
54.3
Plenty
12
22.6
10
35.7
22
27.2
Plenty
00 05
0.0 9.4
00 00
0.0 0.0
00 05
0.0 6.2
None* A few
129
68
197
70
itle 9.
Distribution of Apis dorsata colonies on terrestrial and arboreal supports in relation to height from ground level (pooled for 1997-98 and 1998-99) Distribution of colonies on
Height from ground leveKm)
Terrestrial support #
%
#
%
#
0.0-5.0
00
0.0
04
5.9
04
2.0
Plenty
10-10.0
03
2.3
19
27.9
22
k % ^JL
Plenty
10.0-15.0
84
65.1
25
36.8
109
55.3
Plenty
15.0-20.0
31
24.0
20
29.4
51
25.9
Plenty
20.0-25.0
00
0.0
00
0.0
00
0.0
None^
25.0-30.0
11
8.6
00
0.0
n
5,6
A few
Above 30.0
00
0.0
00
0.0
00
0.0
None^
Total
129
Arboreal support
68
I=Terrestrial; 2=Terrestrial+Arboreal
Total
197
Availability of supports
%
71 The next preferred height for comb construction was 15 to 20 m where 25.0 and 22.6 per cent colonies were observed during 1997-98 and 199899, respectively. A few colonies i.e. 2.6 per cent during 1997-98 and 1,9 per cent during 1998-99 constructed their comb at a height between 5 to 10 m. However, no colony was observed below 5 m height during both the years, though plenty of supports were available. Between 20 to 25 m and above 30 m height, no colony could be observed because of the nonavailability of any terrestrial support of this height in the area covered under these studies (Table 7 and 8). (b)
Height of the combs on arboreal supports On arboreal supports, the A. dorsata made combs up to 20 m height
from ground level. During 1997-98, the most preferred height for comb construction was between 10 to 15 m gitdng support to 40.0 per cent of the colonies followed by 27,5 per cent at 5 to 10 m and 25,0 per cent at 15 to 20 m heights while during 1998-99, maximum colonies (35.7%) constructed their combs at hei^t between 15 to 20 m closely followed by 10 to 15 m height where 32.1 per cent colonies were formed. Between 5 to 10 m height, 27.5 and 28.6 per cent colonies made their combs during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respec ivley (Table 7 and 8). The pooled data in table 9 for 1997-98 and 1998-99 revealed that the most preferred height for comb construction on terrestrial support was between 10 to 15 m where 65.1 per cent colonies were recorded, followed by 15 to 20 m where 24.0 per cent colonies made their combs. At 5 to 10m and 25 to 30 m height, 2.3 and 8.6 per cent colonies constructed their
72 combs, respectively. However, up to 5 m height no comb was constructed inspite of the plenty of supports available but at 20 to 25 m height no colony was observed only because of non-availability of suitable site. On arboreal supports also, the most preferred height for comb construction was between 10 to 15 m where 36.8 per cent colonies were recorded, followed by 15 to 20 where 29.4 per cent colonies made their combs. At 5 to 10 m height, 27.9 per cent colonies constructed their comb and about 6 per cent colonies were observed below 5 m height, one colony being recorded below one meter height during 1997-98. Morse and Lai go (1985) and Ahmed and Abbas (1985) also observed several colonies which were almost touching the ground, (c)
Height of the combs irrespective of type of supports Across the type of supports, the most preferred height for comb
construction was between 10 to 15 m during both the years when 56.0 and 54.3 per cent colonies were recorded ttering 1997-98 ar^d 1998-99, respectively (Table 7 and 8). The next preferred height was between 15 to 20 m when 25.0 and 27.2 per cent colonies constructed their combs during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. During both the years, almost equal preference for comb construction was recorded for 5 to 10 m height when U.O and 11.2 per cent colonies were observed during 1997-98 and 199899, respectively at this height. The pooled data in table 9 revealed that 10 to 15 m was the most preferred height for nesting on both the terrestral and arboreal supports individually (65.1% on terrestrial and 36.8 on arboreal) and collectively
73 (55.3%). On terrestrial supports, 89 per caitof the colonies were observed between 10 to 20 m height where as on arboreal 95 per cent of the colonies formed their nests at 5 to 20 m height On both the supports jointly 92 per cent colonies were at 5 to 20 m height. The observations recorded on range of comb height during the present investigations were in agreement with those reported by Chakrabarti and Chaudhari (1972), Nandi and Mahabal (1974), Deodikar et al. (1977) andReddy et a/. (1986), however, the distribution of colonies at different heights varied. Deodikar et al. (1977) reported maximum distribunon of colonies between 6.1 to 12.0 m height while Reddy and Reddy (1989) found maximum colonies between 15.1 to 20.0 m height on both terrestrial as well as arboreal supports. The variation might be due to the availability of suitable site and h e i ^ t 4.1.1.4 Direction of A dorsata combs The data on distribution of A, dorsata combs in different directions were analysed in relation to the North-South bearing and are presented in (Tables 10, 11 & 12). On terrestrial as well as arboreal supports, the A, dorsa:a honey bees constructed their combs along and around both the axis i.e. Morth-South and East-West, dqjending upon the suitability of the support (a)
Choice of direction for comb construction on terrestrial supports The actual N-S axis (0*NS) was &e most preferred direction where
30.3 (Table 10) and 28.3 per cent (Table 11) colonies constructed their combs during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. The iiext preferred
74 Table 10.
NS bearing rees in aeg
Distribution of Apis dorsata colonies on terrestrial and arboreal supports in relation to north-south bearing (1997-98) Distribution of colonies on Terrestrial1 support
Arboreal support
Total
#
%
30.0
. 18
45.0
41
NW 30-60 NW
23 08
10.5
03
7.5
06
7.9
03
7.5
11 09
35.3 9.5 7.8
60-90 NW
09
11.8
05
12.5
J_ "f-
12.1
NE 0-30 30-60 NE
06
7.9
00
0.0
06
5.2
08
10.5
03
7.5
11
9.5
60-90 NE
16
21.1
08
20.0
24
20.7
Total
76
0 0-30
NS
Table 11.
NSb© aring rees m ucg]
#
-
%
40
#
%
116
Distribution of Apis dorsata colonies on terrestrial and arboreal supports in relation to north-south bearing (1998-99) Distribution of colonies on Terrestrial support
Arboreal support
#
%
#
%
Total #
%
0
NS
15
:s-.3
12
42.9
27
33.3
0-30
NW
07
13.2
02
7.1
09
11.1
30-60 NW
04
-.5
02
7.1
06
7.4
60-90 NW
05
^.4
02
7.1
07
8.6
0-30
NE
05
y. 4
03
10.7
08
9.9
30-60 NE
03
5,6
04
14.3
07
8.6
60-90 NE
14
26.4
03
10.7
17
21.0
Total
53
28
;
81
75 direction for comb construction was 60-90**NE where 21.1 and 26.4 per cent colonies had their combs during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. During 1997-98, 0-30°NE and SO-eCNW directions were less preferred as only 7.9 per cent colonies constructed their combs in these directions. However, during 1998-99, the least preferred direction for comb construction was 30-60^NE followed by 30-60^NW where only 5.6 at 7,5 per cent colonies were recorded, respectively. During 1997-98, the colonies showed equal preferences for O-SCNW and 30-60° NE directions where 10.5 per cent colonies were recorded in each direction. However, during 1998-99. 60-90*'NW and 0-30°NE directions had equal number of colonies (9.4%). The data on direction of comb construction for two years i.e. 199798 and 1998-99 revealed that during both the years the choice for direction on terrestrial supports was more or less similar. (b)
Choice of flir«€tion for comb coii$tnicdoii on arboreal supports Like terrestrial supports, on the arboreal also the most preferred
direction for comb construction was CNS during both the years when 45.0 and 42.9 per cent colonies constructed their combs during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. The jecond preferred direction during 199798 was 60-90°NE in which 20.0 per cent colonies made their combs while during 1998-99 the second preference was given to SO-eO^NE direction where 14.3 per cent colonies were recorded. The direction 0-30°NW,30-60°NW and SO-dO'^NE during 1997-98 and 1998-99 had almost similar distribution pattern of colonies (7.1-7.5%).
76 »Diiring 1997-98, no colony formed comb in 0-30**NW direction while 10.7 per cent colonies made their combs in this direction during 1998-99. The third preferred direction during 1997-98 was 60-90®NW where 12.5 per cent colonies were recorded while during 1998-99, the third preferred directions were 60-90°NW and O-SO^NE where 10.7 per cent colonies had their comb in each direction. The pooled data (Table 12) for two years revealed that the comb construction by A. dorsata on the terrestrial and arboreal supports in relation to direction showed almost similar trend with little variation. On both the supports, maximum colonies constructed the combs along or around N-S axis. The percentage of combs along actual N-S axis (0°NS) was higher (44.1%) on arboreal then the terrestrial support (29.5%). Similarly, the per cent distribution of colonies on arboreal support along N-S axis and towards NW direction was higher (69¥o). then on terrestrial sttpports (59.7%). The direction 60-90®NE"had second hi^est distribution of colonies where 23.2 per cent colonies made their combs on terrestrial and 16.2 per cent on arboreal supports. The observations made by Nandi and Mahabal (1974) and Deodikar et al. (1977) on comb direction of ^. dorsata corroborate with the present findings. The terrestrial colonies had lefast preference for 30-60''NW direction where only 7.7 per cent colonies were found while for arboreal colonies, O-SO^NE was least preferred one where only 4,4 per cent colonies made their combs. The tendency for comb construction towards NE direction
77 irible 12.
Distribution of Apis dorsata colonies on terrestrial and arboreal supports in relation to north-south bearing (pooled for 1997-98 and 1998-99) Distribution of colonies on
NS bearing in degrees
Terrestrial support
Total
Arboreal support
#
%
#
%
#
%
0
NS
38
29.5
30
44.1
68
34.5
0-30
NW
15
11.6
05
7,3
20
10.1
30-60 NW 60-90 NW
10
7.7
05
7.3
15
7.6
14
10.8
07
10.3
21
10.7
Total
77
59.7
47
59.1 ,
124
62.94
0-30 NE 30-60 NE
11
S.5
03
4.4
14
7.1
11
8.5
07
10.3
18
9.1
60-90 NE
30
23.2
11
16.2
41
20.8
Total
52
40.3
21
30.9
73
37.1
129
65.5
68
34.5
197
CSratid total
78 was more in terrestrial colonies (40.3%) as compared to the arboreal colonies (30.9%). /{)
Direction of comb irrespective of the type of support Irrespecti¥e of the type of comb support, O^NS was the most
preferred direction where 35.3 and 33.3 per cent colonies constructed their combs during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively followed by 60-90**!^ direction when equal distribution (21%) of colonies was recorded during both the years (Table 10 and 11). The pooled data (Table 12) also revealed that maximum colonies (34.5%) constructed their combs along actual NS axis (O'NS) followed by 60-90°NE where 2 0 J per cent colonies made their combs. The data also revealed that for comb construction the tendency towards NS ami NW directions was higher (62.9%) than towards NE directions where 37.1 per cent colonies were recorded (Table 12). The least preferred direction, across the type of support was 0-30®NE where 7.1 per cent colonies were found to construct their combs. .4.1.1.5 General organisation of .^. dorsatm comb The area in comb can be divided into several sections viz : i)
the area of the attachment cells having irregular shape
ii)
honey storage area having laterally extended cell s of more or less hexagon^ shape
iii)
pollen storage area having hexagonal cells
iv)
brood area of worker and drone having regular hexagonal cells
v)
the queen cells area if raised attached at the bottom of the comb
79 The drones and queen cells in a comb appear occasionally. The iioney, pollen and brood in a conib are the basic requirements for the llgurvivai of the colony, however, their quantity vary from comb to comb ^depending upon the strength of bees in a colony, available bee forage in the area and several other factors. As such, the combs of different size are observed in nature. The general measurement (length, breadth and thickness) of combs and the thickness of middle septum was recorded during the course of study and are presented in table 13. Also, the dimensions of different types of cells in a comb were recorded which are presented in tables 14 and 15. 4,1,1.6 Measiiremeiits of A. dorsata combs A wide variation in length, breadth and thickness of combs constructed by A, dorsata was observed, however, the thickness of the ^middle septum at the base of the comb was constant (1.5 mm) in all the ^cotnbs examined (Table 13). k{a)
Length The average length of the comb at middle was 41.8 cm with a
variatiott from 27.5 to 62.0 cm. •(b)
Breadth The overall mean breadth of the A. dorsata combs was 44.0 cm
with 22.1 and 75.3 cm values for minimum and maximum breadth, •respectively. The comb breadth was maximum at base which decreased .towards distal end. The breadth at the base varied from 26.5 cm to 87.0 ^»« with an average of 52.3 cm. The breadth at 5 cm below the base varied
80
Table 13.
Dimensions of ^jjw dorsata deserted combs
Dimension
n
Mean
Range
Comb breadth at base (cm)
35
52.3
26.5-87.0
Comb breadth at 5 cm below the base (cm)
35
46.3
21.0-77.0
Comb breadth at 5 cm above the distal end (cm)
. 35
33.4
19.0-62.0
Mean breadth (cm)
35
44.0
22.1-75.3
Comb length (cm)
35
41.8
27.5-62.0
Comb thickness (mm) at base with honey
35
93.6
71.6-107.5
19
51.3
49.5-58.6
19
1.5
1.5-1,5
Comb thickness (mm) at base without honey Middle septum thickness (mm) at base
'
&= Number of ^. dorsata combs examined
• .
© 1
iSi'Oin 21.0 to 77.0 cm with an average of 46.3 cm and the breadth at 5 cm abovettiedistal end varied from 19.0 to 62.0 lan with an average of 33.4 cm. (c)
Thickness The average thickness measured at the base of the comb containing
honey was 93.6 mm with a variation from 71.6 to 107.5 mm where as the average thickness mei.iured at base without honey varied from 49.5 to 58.6 mm (av. 51.3 mm). However, the breadth, length and thickness observed by Deodikar et at (1977) in Central India were lesser i.e. 19.4-40,8 mm, 13.3-35,4 cm and 28.1-52.7 mm, respectively. The diiferences are largely because of the strength of the colonies. 4.1.1.7 Dimensions if the cells i n ^ . dorsata combs The data on the dimensions of brood and honey cells are presented in table 14. Ca)
Br«#ii cells
(1)
Length
'
"
The length of 10 brood cells was measured in horizontal and diagonal direction which varied from 52.0 to 56.0 mm with an average of 53.2 mm and 49.0 to 56.0 mm with a mean of 52.1 mm, respectively. (H)
Depth The depth of the brood cells in a comb varied from 14.0 ram towards
the terminal edge to 18.0 mm of the full grown cells in the centre of the comb with a meai depth of 16.7 mm.
82
Table 14.
Dimensions of brood and honey cells of Apis dorsata comb
Type of cell
Length of 10 Cell depth linear cells (mm) (mm)
Number of cells per 10 cm length
A. Brood cells (n=34xlO) (i) Horizontal cells
53.2 (52.0-56.0)
16.7 (14.0-18.0)
11.75 (11.2-12.0)
(ii) Diagonal cells
52.1 (49,0-56.0)
-
12.00 (11.2-12.8)
B. Honey cells (n=34xl0)
55.3 (47.0-59.0)
45.9 (35.0-53.0)
11.30 (10.6-13.3)
n = Number of combs examined x number of observations. Figures in parentheses are range values.
83 (iii) Number of brood cells per 10 cm length The mean number of horizontal cells per 10 cm length was 11.8 with a variation from 11.2 to 12.0 while the mean number of diagonal cells was higher 12.0 cells per 10 cm length with variation from 11.2 to 12.8 cells per 10 cm length. Since, there was variation in horizontal and diagonal measurements of (he length of 10 linear brood cells, the mean number of cells.per 10 cm length also varied. The brood cell dimensions recorded in the current studies were quite close to thsoe reported earlier by Singh (1964) and Deodikar et ah (1977) from various parts of country. The length (53.2mm) of 10 linear brood cells was, however less as compared to 54.40 mm in Nagrtoa (Rahman and Singh, 1946) and 56.44 mm in Poona (Thakar and Tonapi, 1961). (b)
Honey cells The honey cells in A, dorsata comb remained confined to the upper
portion of the comb just below the attachment cells. On arboreal supports, the honey cells were present only towards outer side of the comb occupying nearly one third of the breadth at the attachment place while on teirestial support the honey cells were seen spreading almost throughout the breadth of the comb at the attachment place having maximum honey storage in the laterally extended cells at outwardly exposed area (i)
Length The length of 10 honey cells varied between 47.0 and 59.0 mm
with a mean of 55.3 mm which was marginally less than 56.6 ram at Indore (Deodikar €f a/., 1977).
84 (ii)
Depth The average depth of the honey cells was found, varying from 35.0
mm at inner side to 53.0 mm towards outer side with an overall mean of 45.9 mm, (ill)
.
Number The average number of linear honey sells per 10 cm length was
fewer (11,3) than the brood cells. The mean maximum number of honey cells per 10 cm length was however, higher (13.3) then the corresponding brood cells, (c)
Queen cells The construction of new queen cells in a combs depends on several
factors such as the time of new colony fom ation or swarming, loss of the queen in a colony, age, prolificity and fertile egg laying capacity of the queen in a colony, etc. The period of formation of new queen cells varies according to the local flora. In the present study, the queen cells were observed during March and April. 'S^kramath (1989) also found queen cells during February-March at Raichur but Deodikar et al. (1977) reported queen cslls formation at Poona during September-October. Out of the 62 deserted and 3 live comb examined, there were 12 queen cells in 6 combs (Tatsle 15). The number of queen cells in queen cell bearing comb varied between 1 to 4. The appearance of the queen cells was entirely different from all other type of cells in the comb as they had thick side walls and no hexagonal pattern like other cells. The queen cells were r5»i«:pd either singly or in cluster of 2-3, dorsoventrally on or
85
Tabic 15. MeasuremeEts of queen cells in Apis dorsata comb Measurements of queen cells (mm)
Observations Number of combs examined 65 Number of combs with queen cells
•'
6 '
Number of queen cells in a comb
2.4 (1-4)
Total number of queen cells recorded
12
Number of queen cells with live larva/pupa
01
Figures in parentheses are range values.
(i)
Depth
(ii) Diameter of mouth
14.1 (8.0-18.0) 5.6 (5.0-6.0)
(iii) Thickness 10.7 of wall (3.0-15.0)
86 alongtfiemiddle septum at the vertical terminal end of the comb (Plate 3). Ail the 12 queen ceils were without operculum. Only one cell had live queen larva (Plate 3) which appeared different from other queen cells, probably left unattended. The depth varied from 18.0 mm in live to 8.0 mm in dead cells (cells without live queen larva/pupa). The average diameter of the circular mouth of cells was 5.6 mm with a variation from 5.0 mm in live to 6.0 mm in dead cells. Similarly the thickness of walls at distal end varied between 3.0 mm in live to 15.0 mm in dead cells. 4,hl,S Colouis»tiom by A. dorsata The weeHy data on the colonization by A. dorsata on terrestrial and arboreal supports during 1997-98 and 1998-99 are presented in table 16 and graphically represented in Fig. 1, 2 and 3. (a)
Terrestrial supports A total of 129 ^. dorsata colonies comprising of 76 during 1997-98
arid 33 during 1998-99 were observed in the area under observation. The colonies observed in the first week of October during both the years as shown in table 16 were the old colonies which did not desert in the last season. During both the years the appearance of first colony was observed ill the first week of Novembe (44* std. week). No further colonization was observed during 2"*, S*"** and 4* week of November during both the years. In fact, colonization started in the first week of December (48* std. week) during both the years. In December, 6.€ and 11.3 per cent colonies settled dttiing 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. No colonization was recorded in theS** week of December during both the years. In the month
Plate 3.
Queen celts of A. dorsata
87
Table 16.
Periodical oolommlion ofApis dorsata colonies on terrestrial and arboreal supports (1997-98 and 1998-99)
Month and standard week
•
October 40 41 . - 42 43 Total November 44 45 46 47 Total December 4S 49 50 51 52 • Total January 1 2 • 3 4 Total February 5 6 7 8 Total Mareli 9 10 11 12 Total
Colonization of ^ . dorsata Terrestrial support 1997-98 % §
1998-99 # %
on
Arboreal support
Total # %
1997-98 1998-99 # % % . §
Total # %
07 10.3 00 0.0 00 0.0 00 0.0 07 10.3
02 §0 00 00 02
2.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.6
02 00 00 00 02
3.8 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.8
04 00 00 00 04
3.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.1
02 00 00 00 02
5.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 5.0
05 17.9 00 0.0 00 0.0 00 0.0 05 17.9
01 00 00 00 01
1.3 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.3
01 00 00 00 01
1.9 0-0 0.0 0.0 1.9
02 00 00 00 02
1.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 1,6
00 00 00 00 f^O
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
02 00 00 00 02
01 02 §1 00 01 05
1.3 2.6 1.3 0.0 1.3 6.6
01 1.9 01 1.9 03 5.7 00 0.0 01 L9 06 1 1 ^
02 03 04 00 02 11
1.6 2.3 3,1 0.0 1,6 8.5
01 00 01 01 00 03
2.5 0.0 2.5 2.5 0.0 7.5
02 7.1 00 0.0 01 3.6 02 7.1 01 3.6 06 21.4
03 4.4 00 0.0 02 2.9 03 4.4 01 1.5 09 13.2
06 7.9 03 3.9 01 1 3 00 0.0 10 13.2
03 5.7 06 11.3 01 1-9 00 0.0 10 18.9
09 7.0 09 7.0 02 1.6 02 5.0 20 15.6
01 04 10.0 06 15.0 02 5.0 13 32.0
00 0.0 02 7.1 00 0.0 01 3.6 03 10.7
01 1.5 06 8.8 06 8.8 03 4.4 16 23.5
05 6.6 24 31.6 07 9.2 08 10.5 44 57,9
06 11.3 13 24.5 10 18.9 03 5.7 32 ^^ . 4
11 8.5 37 28.7 •17 13.2 11 8.5 76 58.9
06 05 07 04 22
10 1 J.Z 02 2.6 02 ^ • \ J 00 0.0 14 1S.4
02 00 00 00 02
3,8 0,0 0.0 0.0 3.8
12 9.3 02 1.6 02 1.6 00 0.0 16 12.4
00 00 00 00 00
j£»T'«?
7.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 7.1
02 00 00 00 02
2.9 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.9
04 14.3 J. J^> w3 02 7.1 17.5 . 05 17.9 10.0 01 3.6 12 42.8 35#it
10 07 12 05 34
14.7 10.3 17.6 7.4 50.0
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
00 00 00 00 00
0,0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
15.0
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
00 00 00 00 00
KS
^.dorsata colonization {%) 3
^0
m
_ i
ro
N>
0
cn
|_
1 1
1
U
0
1
OJ 1
o
(a
s (D < 0 0
W
t
o"
01
• ^
J>.
8 CO
Si.
ST J
o. u
CO
-^ CD
3.
i Iro
1
1
N'
•a 0 0 -h
'
te]
Iff
3
S
(O
. .
^
7^ &
1—' -»^ C7I
'
' IILJ(LJI-H 1
cn T—1
T •
0
T
(A
^ CO
sfi)
3
a 0
Colonization & desertion (%)
g
S
o o
S
S
H H M
-I o #-+-
_k
-^ H
CD CD O CD
o
CD
o. o 3
g'
!-•
o 3 U) fi) C 3 "D Q. (D 0) (D
5
c o 3 = (D 9>
^-' O
sr o 3 0) (0
88, of January, the total coloniz^on was 13.2 per cent during 1997-98 and 18.9 per cent during 1998-99, During this month major colonization (7.9%) was in the first week during 1997-98 and in the 2"* week (11.3%) during 1998-99. During the period, mmmum colonization took place in the month of February when 57.9 and 60.4 per cent colonies settled during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. In February, maximum colonization was in the 2"* week (24.5 to 31.6%) during both the years. Settling of new colonies on terrestrial supports continued till 3*^ week of March during 1997-98, while during 1998-99, no fiirther colonization was observed after first week of March. In the montih of March, 18.4 per cent colonies appeared during 1997-98 while only 3.8 per cent colonies were recoided during 1998-99. On the terrestrial supports, the colonization started in the first week of November during both the years, however, a regular process of colonization was observed from first week of December onwards till March, During 1997-98, the colonization was recorded till 3^^ week of March, however, it stopped earlier i.e. in F week of March during 199899. February remained the peak period of colonization during both the years. (b)
Arboreal supports A total of 68 A. dorsata colonies consisting of 40 during 1997-98
and 28 during 1998-99 were recorded on arboreal in the observational areas (Table 16). As in case of terrestrial supports, on arboreal supports also the colonies observed during F week of October were the old colonies s,
which did not desert during last season. Unlike that on the terrestrial
89 supports, colonization on arboreal supports started in the first week of December, however, during 1998-99 two new colonies (7.1%) settled in the first week of November and thereafter till first week of December no further colonization was observed. During 1997-98, there was no colonization in the 2"* and 4* week of December while during 1998-99, no colonization was recorded in the 2"'' week of December. The colonization was higher (21.4%) in December during 1998-99 as compared to 1997-98 (7.5%). During 1997-98, a regular process of colonization was observed in the month of January with a total colonization of 32,0 per cent while during 1998-99, it was irregular with a total colonization of 10.7 per cent. Like on terrestrial supports, maximum colonization on arboreal supports was also recorded in the month of February when 55.0 and 42.8 per cent of the colonies settled during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. la the 3'^ week of February, there was maximum colonization (17.5%) during 1997-98 and (17.9%) during 1998-99 followed by P week when 15,0 and 14,3 per cent colonies appeared during 1997-98 and 199899, respectively. After the 4* week of February no further colonization was observed during bctth the years on the arboreal supports, (c)
Irrespective of the type «f supports The weekly and monthly data (pooled) on colonization of ^. dorsata
during 1997-9*^ are presented in table 17, The colonization of A. dorsata started in the P* week of November during both the years when 0.9 and 3.7 per cent colonies appeared during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. No new colony settled in the 2"^ 3^''
90 * TaWe 17.
Periodical colonization of Apis dorsata during 1997-98 and 1998-99 (Pooled for arboresJ and terrestrial supports)
Month of year
Standard
Colonization of ^ . dorsata
week 1998-99
1997-98 #
October
November
December
Januaiy
February
March
Grand total
40 41 42 43 Total 44 45 46 47 Total 48 49 50 51 52 Total 1 2 3 4 Total 5 6 7 8 Total 9 10 11 12 Total
04 00 00 00 04 01 00 00 00 01 02 02 02 01 01 08 07 07 07 02 ^iuf
11 29 14 12 66 10 02 02 00 14 116
%
3.4 0.0 0.0 0.0 3,4 0.9 0.0 0.0 0,0 0.9 1.7 1.7 1.7 0.9 0.9 6.9 6.0 6.0 6.0 1.7 19.8 9.5 25.0 12.1 10.3 S6.9 8.6 1.7 1.7 0.0 12.1
#
07 00 00 00 07 03 00 00 00 03 03 01 04 02 02 12 03 08 01 01 13 10 15 15 04 44 02 00 00 00. 02 81
Total
%
§
%
8.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 8.6 3.7 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.7 3.7 1.2 4.9 2.5 2.5 14,8 3.7 9.9 1.2 1.2
n
5.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 5.6 2.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2,0 2.5 1.5 3.0 1.5 1.5 10.2 5.1 7.6 4.1 1:5 18.3 10.7 22'. 3 14.7 8.1 55.8 6.1 1.0 1.0 0,0 8.1
J i l l * ML
12.3 18.5 18.5 4.9 •S4.3 2.5 • 0.0 0.0 0.0 2.5
00 00 00 11 04 00 00 00 04 05 03 06 03 03 20 10 15 08 03 36 21 44 29 16 110 12 02 02 00 16 197
91 and 4* week of November in either of the year. The colonization continued from I" week of December till 3"^ week of March (11* std. week) during 1997-98 and till I"' week of March (9*^ std. week) during 1998-99. In the month of December, 6.9 and 14.8 per cent new colonization occurred during 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively which further increased to 19.B and 16.5 per cent in January and 56.9 and 54.3 per cent in February during respective years. The pooled data (Table 17) revealed that maximum colonization (55.8%) occurred in February followed by January (18.3%) and olonization during the month of December and March was more or less similar. A total of 197 A. dorsata colonies were observed, of which colonization of 116 and 81 colonies occurred during 1997-98and 1998-99, respectively. 4.1,1.9 DeiertioD nf combs by A d&rsatm The weekly and monthly data on the periodical desertion of combs by ^, dorsata on terrestiiai as well as arboreal supports during 1997-98 and 1998-99 are presented in table 18 mid the pattern of desertion is represented graphically in Fig. 2, 3 and 4. (a)
Terrestrial supports On terrestrial Supports, the desertion of combs during 1997-98
started in the first week of February (5* std. week) when one colony absconded and the process continued upto the 4* wefek of June (25* std. week). However, during 1998-99, the process of desertion started in the 2°^ week of March (10* std. week) and terminated in the 3'^ week of June (24* std. week). In February, 1997-98, only 2.9 per cent desertion occurred
Table 18.
92 Periodical desertion of combs by Apis dorsata on terrestrial and arboreal supports (1997-98 and 1998-99) Desertion of combs on
H^f^ntli ^fAni4af/1 JLVXUllUi ijLltUUalU
Terrestrial support
of year week
Arboreal support
1997-98
1998-99
Total
#
#
#
%
01 00 01 00 02 01 03 01 00 01 06 08 05 13 07 33 13 16 21 13 63 04 01 03 05 00 13 00
0.8 0.0 0.8 0.0 1.7 0.8 2.6 0.8 0.0 0.9 5.1 6.8 4.311.1 6.0 Zo.2 11.1 13.7 17.9 11,1
%
Febrttary 5 01 L5 6 00 0.0 7 01 1.5 8 00 0.0 Total 02 * • V 9 01 1.5 March 10 01 1.5 11 00 0.0 12 00 0.0 13 00 0.0 Total 02 2.9 April 14 00 0.0 15 01 L5 16 03 4.4 17 00 0.0 Total ©4 CO May 18 09 '13.2 19 15 '£*£fm m. 20 18 26.5 21 11 16.2 Total 53 77.9 Jufle 22 01 1.5 23 00 0.0 24 01 1.5 25 05 7.4 26 00 0.0 Total 07 10.3 July 27 00 0.0
00 00 00 00 00 00 02 01 00 01 04 08 04 10 07 29 04 01 03 02 10 03 01 02 00 00 06 00
Grand total
49
€S
%
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 4.1 2.0 0.0 2.0 8.2 16.3 8.2 20.4 14.3 59.2 8.2 2.0 6.1 4.1 20.4 6.1 2.0 4.1 0.0 0.0 12.2 0.0
117
v^-yliHJ
3.4 0.9 2.6 4.3 0.0 11,1 0.0
1997-98 % i
1998-99 #
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 01 00 00 01 06 06 05 03 20 01 00 01 §1 04
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0,0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0,0 0.0 3.2 0.0 0.0 3.2 19.3 19.3 16.1 9.7 64.5 3,2 0.0 3.2 3.2 12.9 97 22*6 03 9.7
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 02 02 04 00 04 03 01 08 01 05 03 02 11 00 02 00 00 00 02 00
31
25
%
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 8.0 8.0 16.0 0.0 16.0 12.0 4.0 32.(1 4.0 20.0 12.0 8.0 44.0 0.0 8.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 8.0 0,0
Total wT
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 02 02 04 00 05 03 01 09 07. 11 08 05 31 01 02 01 01 04 09 03 56
%
0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.6 3.6 7.1 0.0 8.9 5.4 1.8 16.0 12.5 19.6 14.3 8.9 00**f
1.8 3.6 1.3 1.8 7.1 12.5 5.4
Colonization and desertion (%) M O
GJ
O
*O.
cn o
a> o
-J
00
CD
o
o
o
o CJ
o
\s
HUM CD CD CO
CD CD -v|
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U1
M
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J
TO
CD (D
;^ CO
ro
s-
CD
O
CO
ro o ro ro to o>
o
w c
T3 T3 O
A. dorsata desertion (%)
(Q • • ^
1 (D 3r
o ::!
(D fi)
o 3
^ O (fi ^ » C Ik "D « •D Q U O
7^ (fi
CA
> —f —% m -1
u o
(1) Q)
-1
CD
(/) -1
o o -1 a > Q}
-1 C D —1 —1
0
(A - 1
(0 O 3
J3" 3 CO
*-^^^
,^"^ Ql \ n> \ CD ' ^ CD '2i CD CO CO CD 00
CO
CD
CO 00 CD -vl CO •S CD ^ 00 CD ""-^ ^—'
0) 3
a
98 4.1. i.lO
Effect of different factors on the desertion of combs by Apis dorsatm
Effect of various factors viz., temperature, relative humidity, direction of comb, height of comb, extraction/hunting of honey from the combs, nesting support, availability of food flora, strength of brood stores in combs and comb infestation by wax moth and mite on desertion of combs by A. dorsata were studied and the results are presented below, (a)
Temperature The weekly and monthly data of temperature{ maximum, minimum
and mean) during study period (1997-1999) is presented in Annexure-III and represented graphically in Fig. 6. (i)
Terrestrial supports During 1997-98, the desertion' af combs commenced in the month
of February with 2.9 per cent desertion, when the maximum, minimum and mean temperatures were 22.6, 7.8 and I5,2°C, respectively (Table 18). During March at a mean temperature of 17.2*C, 2.9% comb desertion was also recorded . It gradually increased to 6.0 per cent in April at a prevailing maximum and mean temperature of 36.3 and 27. P C , respectively. The maximum desertion (77,9%) occurred in May during 1997-98, when the mean maximum temperature was 41.4®. The weekly data indicated that
weekly desertion (26.5%) took place in the
3xd ^ggif of ifyy when the mean maximum temperature was 43.3°C. A significant positive correlation (r=0,467; Prded in the colonies which made their combs in 60-90 jft-t r^ f*
t^r-t^r^
Pooled
%
Mgnikhera Neoii Kalan Mignikhera Neoli Kalan Matrashyam Ksar Neoli Kalan Matrashyam Matrashyam Rawalwas Aryanagar Shahpur
Neebu Leelhari sp.
1999
#
76
110
•114
The nesting supports of A. floma included shnibs (7 species), trees (6 species), plant material like dried sticks and other articles such as folding cot (Plate 5), discarded bicycle frame, table fans and inside chinwcy walls etc. A total of 110 J . jlorea colonies of which 34 during 1998-99 and 76 during 1999 (August to November) were recorded. The data in table 29 revealed that maximum colonies (37.2%) were recorded on the shrub Capparis sepiaria locally known as Heens/Kanthari followed by C. decidua, (teent/kair) and 'Leelbari' where 8.2 per cent colonies were recorded in each plant species. During 1998, higher number of colonies were recorded in these plant species as compared to 1999. In C. sepiaria, 38.2 per cent colonies were observed during 1998 against 36.8 per cent colonies during 1999. Similarly, colonization of 11.8 per cent colonies occurred in each C. decidua and 'Leelbarf plant during 1998 as against 6.6 per cent during 1999. The data in table 30 revealed that maidmum colonization (67.3%) occurred in shrubs followed by trees where 18.2 per cent colonies were observed. On plant materials, more colonies (10.0%) were observed as com jared to the other articles, where only 4.5 per cent colonies constructed thei;^ combs. The colony formatioii by A. floma was h i ^ e r on shrubs (70.6%) and trees (20.6%) during 1998 than during 1999, when 65.8 and 17.1 per cent colonies were recorded on shrubs and trees, respectively. While colonization by A. florea on plant material (10.5%) and other materials (6.6%) was higher during 1999 as compared to 1998 when 8.8 per cent colonies were recorded on dried plant materials only.
Plate 5.
A. florea nest on folding cot
115
Table 3 0.
Colonization by Aptfloma on plants, plant material and other articles at and around Hisar (August-November 1998, 1999) A. florea ^clonies during
Nest support 1998 #
%
Shrabs
24
70.6
Trees
07
B. Plant material
1999 #
Pooled
%
#
%
50
65.8
74
67.3
20,6
13
17.1
20
!8.2
03
8.8
08
10,5
11 ^10.0
C, Other articles
00
0.0
05
6.6
Total
34
A, Plants
•
76
05
no
4.5
116 More nymber of nests were formed by A. floma on arboreal supports (S5.5%). Among these, the most preferred species was a shrub, Capparis sepiaria (37.2%). Dense canopy with typical thorny nature probably made this shrub most suitable and safer nesting supports for A. florea. Soman and Chawda (1996) also reported such preferences in Kutch area of Gujarat where they recorded 90.6 per cent colonies on arboreal supports and observed large number of colonies on Prosopis juUfl.ora (32.0%) and Azadirachta indica (16.2%). However, in the present studies only 3.6 per cent colonies formed their nests on A. indica. The differences can be attributed to the availability and suitability of various sites in a iocalit\. 4,1.2.3 Periodical colonisation ntA. florea colonies, The data on the weekly and monthly colonization of A. flora during 1998 and 1999 are presented in table 31 and graphically in Fig. 10 and 11. The colonization period oiA.florea comprised of 11 and ISweeks during 1998 and 1999, respectively. During 1998, it started in the 3'^ week of August (34* std. week) when 8.8 per cent colonies were recorded and it continued till P^ week of November (44* std. week). Maximum (23.5%) colonization durini 1998 was recorded in the I" week of October (40"^ std. week) followed bv 2^ week (20.6%) of September. There was no colonization during 3"* week of September. During September and October 1998 colorization was 41.2 per cent in each month. During August 1998, only 14.7 per cent colonies were recorded. During 1999, maximum (42.1%) colonization occurred in the month of September followed by October (30.3%) and August (26.3%). The weeMy colonization data during 1999
1.17 Table 31.
Periodical colonizatiott of Apis florea colonies Colonization
Month and standard week
Pooled
1999
1998
#
%
%
#
%
#
m' ji-r
00
0.0
02
2.6
02
1.8
••I*?
00
0.0
05
6,6
05
4.5
34
03
. 8.8
09
11.8
12
10.9
35
02
5.9
04
5.3
06
4.5
Total
m
Jl*f« /
20
26.3
25
22.7
26
05
14.7
12
15.8
17
15.5
37
07
20.6
09
11.8
16
14.5
38
00
0.0
04
5.3
04
3.6
39
02
5.9
07
9.2
09
8.2
Total
14
41.2
32
42.1
46 .
41.8
4Q
08
^vf
••J
10
13.2
18
16.4
41
03
8.8
06
7.9
09
8.2
02
5.9
05
6.6
07
6.4
43
01
2.9
02
2.6
03
2.7
Total
14
41.2
23
30.3
37
33.6
44
01
2.9
01
1.3
02
1.8
45
00
0.0
00
0.0
00
0.0
August
September
October
- 42
•
November . "
Grand total
•.•"W
76
110
A. florea colonization (%) to Ul
(fi
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o •n
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