In Assam, migratory beekeeping is flourishing as beekeepers from states like West Bengal and Bihar transport their bee boxes to pollinate mustard fields and produce honey.
What is Apiculture?
Definition: Apiculture, or beekeeping, refers to the practice of maintaining bee colonies in artificial hives for honey production, beeswax, and pollination services.
Purpose: It promotes sustainable agriculture while enabling the production of honey and other bee-derived products.
Types of Bees Used in Apiculture:
- Apis mellifera (European Honeybee): Preferred for commercial honey production due to its high yield.
- Apis dorsata (Rock Bee): Wild species known for building large honeycombs.
- Apis cerana (Asian Honeybee): Native to South and Southeast Asia, suitable for small-scale beekeeping.
- Trigona (Stingless Bee): Produces medicinal honey, often targeting niche markets.
Impact of Beekeeping on Agriculture:
- Enhanced Pollination: Bees boost cross-pollination, significantly improving crop yields for mustard, mango, coconut, and lychee.
- Better Crop Quality: Effective pollination enhances the size, flavor, and nutritional content of fruits and vegetables.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Bees aid in wild plant reproduction, ensuring ecological balance and healthy ecosystems.
- Economic Advantages: Beekeepers benefit from honey production while farmers see increased income through improved crop yields.
