Pollinator diversity and foraging behavior of Apis mellifera Linnaeus and Apis cerana Fabricius on Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa Linnaeus subspecies chinensis) grown under different farming systems
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31783/elsr.2022.81165174Keywords:
Chinese cabbage, honey bees, pollinatorsAbstract
The present study was on pollinator diversity and foraging behavior of Apis mellifera Linnaeus and Apis cerana Fabricius on Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa Linnaeus subspecies chinensis) grown under different farming systems. A total of 19 insects belonging to 16 genera under 7 families and 3 orders were recorded on Chinese cabbage. Among all insect visitors, A. mellifera (8.85 / 100 flowers) was the most dominant visitor. Significantly higher abundance was recorded in SPNF system followed by the control and CF system, respectively. The insect pollinators showed a positive correlation with temperature and a negative correlation with humidity. The average number of flowers visited by both foragers in one minute was significantly more in SPNF system followed by the control and CF system. The average time spent per flower by both foragers was significantly more in the CF system followed by the control and SPNF system. The number of loose pollen grains sticking to the body of insect pollinators recorded in SPNF system and CF system was statistically the same. Hence, it can be concluded that pollinators prefer SPNF system as compared to CF system and control. So, due to enhanced pollination in SPNF system, farmers may obtain more yields if they are consistent with the timely application of indigenous farm products.
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