Abstract

BRITO, B.B.P.; FAQUINELLO, P.; PAULA-LEITE, M.C.  and  CARVALHO, C.A.L.. Biometric and productive parameters of Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides bee colony in different generations. Arch. zootec. [online]. 2013, vol.62, n.238, pp.265-273. ISSN 1885-4494.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S0004-05922013000200012.

This study aimed to analyze biometric parameters and productive stingless bee colonies mandaçaia (Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides) in consecutive generations. Sixty colonies from different regions of Bahia state were transferred to INPA boxes model. After 90 to 100 days the colonies were evaluated and divided, forming the first and later the second generation. In every generation the colony biometric measurement were evaluated (brood, honey and pollen pots), queen and glossa workers morphometry. The weight of physogastric queen and length of the glossa did not differ between generations. There were differences for the number of brood disks and between honey and pollen characteristics, with variability between generations. Thus biometric and productive parameters studied were directly influenced by environmental factors. However in subsequent generations the colonies showed environment adaptation demonstrating variability that can be exploited.

Keywords : Adaptability; Biological variability; Colony selection; Stingless bee.

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