Spatial and temporal dynamics of Apis dorsata’s nest distribution and habitat preferences across different seasons in Pattoki (Pakistan)
Abstract
The giant honey bee, Apis dorsata , is an ecologically important wild pollinator which is under threat due to habitat alter a tion, climatic change and anthropogenic hazards. To design effective conservation strategies, it is important to understand its spatial and temporal distribution patterns. The present study aimed to study the seasonal dynamics, habitat preferences and nesting characteristics of the colonies of A. dorsata in Tehsil Pattoki, District Kasur, Punjab, Pakistan. Field surveys were carried out in forest, urban, peri-urban and agroforestry habitats. Geographic coordinates, nest characteristics, nesting su b strates, host tree species and habitat attributes were recorded. The patterns of nest distribution and habitat associations were examined by GIS-based mapping and statistical analyses. A total of 50 nest sites were identified across the study area. The colonies were most frequently found in forest habitats (58%), peri-urban (18%), agroforestry (14%) and urban habitats (10%), showing a high preference for vegetation-rich habitats. 100% of colonies were built on live trees, with no dead trees or human-made structures. Six tree species were used for nesting substrates, Ziziphus mauritiana (32%) and Syzygium cumini (22%) being the most common host trees used. Nest height varied between 4.8 and 15.7 m above the ground; the highest was found in Eucalyptus globulus (12.67 ± 1.83 m) while Morus alba had the lowest nests (5.70 ± 0.28 m). Significant fluctuations in activity of colonies were observed between seasons. In s pring, there w as 100% colony retention in all 50 colonies. Colony retention was 80% in summer, when 10 colonies were inactive; and 58% in winter, with 21 inactive/abandoned colonies . There was a significant difference i n nest height by host tree species ( P < 0.0001), but no significant difference in nest site location by host tree species (χ² = 0.477), or by host tree species by habitat category (χ² = 0.424). The results showed that forest habitat and specific host trees are important for A. dorsata abundance and nesting. The present study will serve as a baseline for future research on climate-induced migration and conservation of wild honey bee populations. A detailed residue analysis of honey, wax and bee tissue should be performed to quantify the effect of the use of pesticides in a particular region on health and survival of the bees. Policies should be implemented to protect indigenous trees ( Ziziphus , Syzygium ) for nesting and to encourage their planting in peri-urban areas.References
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