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VOL. 10, ISSUE 9 (2025)
Seasonal dynamics of honey bee foraging and floral calendar development in Semi-Arid Region of North-Eastern Rajasthan
Authors
Arshad Hussain Zafri, Nirmala Kumari, Dr. Vinod Kumari
Abstract
The present study was conducted from 2021 to 2023 in the intensively
cultivated agricultural landscapes of Sikar district, located in the semi-arid
north-eastern region of Rajasthan, India. The research aimed to assess the
diversity of honey bee species, document their floral preferences, and develop
a comprehensive floral calendar to understand the honey flow and dearth periods
critical to beekeeping and crop pollination. Four honey bee species, Apis
dorsata, Apis florea, Apis cerana indica, and Apis
mellifera, were identified. Observations revealed a seasonal pattern in
floral resource availability, closely tied to crop cycles, influencing bee
foraging behavior and pollination dynamics. Major honey flow periods occurred
during winter (November–March) and post-monsoon months (September–October),
driven by crops such as mustard (Brassica campestris), onion (Allium
cepa), and ber (Ziziphus mauritiana). Conversely, dearth periods
were observed during late summer (May–June) due to limited blooming. The study
highlighted the importance of crop diversity and strategic flowering to support
sustainable pollinator populations and optimize both pollination services and
honey production in the region. An annual beekeeping calendar was developed to
guide local apiculture practices aligned with floral availability.
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Pages:17-20
How to cite this article:
Arshad Hussain Zafri, Nirmala Kumari, Dr. Vinod Kumari "Seasonal dynamics of honey bee foraging and floral calendar development in Semi-Arid Region of North-Eastern Rajasthan". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 10, Issue 9, 2025, Pages 17-20
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