Immature population and food stocks in natural colonies of Melipona beecheii Bennett (Apidae: Meliponini) as basic factors for their health

[摘要] Important biologic parameters of Melipona beecheii Bennett have been little studied in Cuba, and even less regarding health. The study of these features and their relationships with the environment favours its improvement taken into account a right maintenance, specially the artificial multiplication in rational hives. This trial, carried out in Mayabeque province during December 2010 and January 2011 had the aim of determining the amount of immature population (brood), food stores and health state of 12 natural hives lodged in tree cavies opened with a motor saw for transferring the colonies to rational hives. The mean per colony of brood combs was 10.60 and of brood cells 2803; the young brood cells were 862 (31%) and the cocoons 1 941 (69%). The honey pot mean per beehive was 108 58; the honey per pot was 7.75 ml and per colony 824 75 ml. The mean of pollen pots was 86.92; the amount of pollen per pot 7.92 g and per behive 681.58 g. Clinical signs of diseases were not observed. Strong colonies and food availability were additional evidences of good health conditions.

[学科分类] 兽医学

[关键词] Melipona beecheii;immature population;food stores;health condition