Stingless bees

A new study from Nagaland University highlights the significant agricultural potential of stingless bees, particularly Tetragonula iridipennis and Lepidotrigona arcifera, in enhancing both the yield and quality of crops. Here are the key takeaways and implications from the research:

Key Findings

• Stingless bees outperformed 9 other insect species in pollinating chilli crops under low hill conditions.
• Under greenhouse conditions, the introduction of stingless bees resulted in a dramatic increase in both crop yield and quality.
• The bees are non-aggressive and stingless, making them safe and practical pollinators for farmers and greenhouse operators.

Pollination Benefits

• Apart from chilli, the bees improved pollination in:
  • Vegetables: cucumber, ash gourd, watermelon, tomato, pumpkin, brinjal
  • Fruits: dragon fruit, mango, guava, gooseberry, Indian jujube
• These findings suggest the possibility of developing region-specific pollination calendars, helping optimize crop productivity year-round.

Additional Economic Value

• The medicinal honey produced by these bees during pollination trials added an extra source of income for growers.
• This dual role—crop pollination and honey production—makes stingless bees highly economically viable.

Ecological and Practical Advantages

• Native to India, particularly in the northeastern, eastern, and southern states, stingless bees are well-adapted to local climates and ecosystems.
• Their small size allows access to small floral structures that may be inaccessible to larger pollinators.

Implications for Indian Agriculture

• Sustainable Pollination: Reduces dependency on chemical growth enhancers and invasive pollinators.
• Income Diversification: Combines agriculture and apiculture (beekeeping) for multiple revenue streams.
• Policy Opportunity: Opens avenues for government support in the form of training, incentives, and inclusion in agricultural extension programs.

(Source: TH)