Studies on wings symmetry and honey bee races discrimination by using standard and geometric morphometrics

Abstract

Morphometric is an essential tool for honey bee races discrimination and characterization. Such vital tool has been applied widely in honey bee researches. Unfortunately there is no available literature for confirming honey bee wings symmetry. Therefore, standard and geometric morphometric analyses were employed for investigating wings symmetry as well as for discriminating between Carniolan and Yemeni honey bees. Moreover, three angles of hind wings (H1, H2 and H3) were evaluated in the discrimination between the two races. Results of morphometric analyses strongly confirmed the symmetry of honey bee wings. Standard and geometric morphometric analyses successfully discriminate between the two races. Hind wing length and angle H3 could be incorporated in honey bee races discrimination.