Manejos básicos para fortalecimento e multiplicação artificial de abelhas Melipona scutellaris Latreille, 1811

Abstract

The creation of stingless native bees essentially depends on the availability of natural resources. However, in certain regions and at different times of the year, there is a scarcity of these resources, leading to the weakening of colonies. Therefore, the present study aimed to strengthen colonies of the Uruçú Nordestina bee (Melipona scutellaris) at the meliponary Júlio Goldfarb of the Federal University of Paraíba (UFPB) – Campus III, in the municipality of Bananeiras–PB, through the provision of supplementary feeding. In March 2022, the meliponary had nine colonies of Uruçú Nordestina bees (Melipona scutellaris), housed in two different hive models, four were in INPA-type boxes, and five were in Nordestina-type boxes. In all colonies, a reduced number of adult individuals, a small amount of brood cells, the presence of phorid flies (Pseudohypocera kerteszi), and a reduced number of food pots (nectar and pollen) were observed. Based on this, a feeding and sanitary management protocol was established, aiming at strengthening the colonies and controlling phorid flies. The protocol consisted of offering an energy feed consisting exclusively of water and sugar (syrup) in the following proportions: 1:1; 2:1; 3:1; and 5:1. These changes in proportions allowed a significant reduction in sugar consumption without affecting the reproductive performance of the colony, making it possible to carry out the first colony divisions in September. As indicated, the study began with nine weak swarms and ended after eleven months of protocol application with 29 strong colonies, representing an increase of 107.12% in the roster. It is concluded that the implementation of an adequate feeding protocol, the acquisition of new swarms to diversify genetics, and the application of artificial divisions significantly contributed to the increase in the roster. Therefore, these practices are essential in meliponiculture, ensuring not only an increase in the roster but also the healthy development of colonies and meeting animal welfare standards.