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VOL. 10, ISSUE 8 (2025)
Comparative nest architecture in open vs. cavity-nesting bees: Structural adaptations in Apis and Tetragonula species
Authors
Devyani S Wardhe, Dr. Sharyu V Ghonmode
Abstract
This study examines the architectural distinctions between the nesting
structures of honey bees gathered from Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, belonging to
the Meliponini (Tetragonula sp.) and Apini (Apis dorsata, Apis
florea and Apis cerana) tribes. To study structural variances, nests
were obtained from nearby beekeepers, bee hunters, and a sawmill. Brood cells,
honey cells, pollen storage, midrib construction, dimensional parameters (length,
width, thickness), preferred nesting sites (cavity vs. open), cell density,
nest coloration, cell capping properties, and waste management regions were the
main subjects of the comparative analysis. The findings showed that there was a
considerable structural difference between the tribes; Meliponini
constructed elliptical or oval cells, whilst Apini constructed hexagonal cells
of varying length depending on purpose. Selection of nesting sites showed
notable differences, with species-specific preferences for cavity or open-air
nesting correlating to the ecological requirements and adaptive foraging
tactics. The studied architectural contrasts underscore the important
morphological and behavioral distinctions between meliponiculture and
apiculture practices, and they offer fundamental insights into how evolutionary
constraints have formed these unique nesting techniques. In addition to
providing useful applications for conservation initiatives and management
strategies of both honey bee tribes in the Indian subcontinent, these findings
advance our scientific knowledge of bee nesting biology.
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Pages:98-104
How to cite this article:
Devyani S Wardhe, Dr. Sharyu V Ghonmode "Comparative nest architecture in open vs. cavity-nesting bees: Structural adaptations in <i>Apis</i> and <i>Tetragonula</i> species". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 10, Issue 8, 2025, Pages 98-104
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