Beekeeping with Hypotrigona spp. (Apidae, Meliponini): the first report of trap-nests for stingless bees in Tanzania

Abstract

Abstract Stingless beekeeping is in its early stages of development in Africa. Stocking of hives with stingless bee colonies presents a major challenge to the sustainability of the beekeeping practices. The current study explored the practices used in the management of Hypotrigona species in Tanga region, Tanzania, with a specific emphasis on hive stocking techniques. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and the information was supplemented with participant observation. Field surveys were also conducted in selected sites to assess stingless bee colony density. Our findings revealed that two Hypotrigona species, namely H. gribodoi and H. ruspolii, were being managed in the study area. Hives were crafted using locally available materials, and were managed using simple techniques near homestead. The most common technique for stocking hives with stingless bee colonies was the use of trap-nests (55%), followed by colony transfer from logs (35%) and colony division (10%). Trap-nests were constructed using bamboo internodes, baobab fruit shells, and waste plastic materials. Colonies were lured into trap-nests using cerumen or propolis harvested from other stingless bee nests. The success of trap-nests was largely attributed to the high density of natural nests of Hypotrigona species in the study area. These findings highlight the significant potential of trap-nests as a viable technique for stocking stingless bee hives, serving as an alternative to the common colony transfer method which is destructive. Further research should explore the use of trap-nests for other local stingless bee species.