Distribution and Characteristics of Two Species of Stingless Bee Hives (Tetragonula spp.) in the Rural Landscape of Sumedang Regency (Indonesia)

Abstract

Tetragonula beekeeping is in high demand, and the activity of hunting wild Tetragonula bees in nature is increasing. The purpose of this study was to determine the type and distribution of wild stingless bee colonies in the Sumedang area of Indonesia, as well as the characteristics of their hives in nature. We used survey methods in this research. Data collection was accomplished by studying and collecting biotic and abiotic data around hives. Two species of Tetragonula bees were found, namely Tetragonula laeviceps Smith at 71 locations in 6 sub-districts and Tetragonula drescheri Schwarz at 9 locations in 5 districts. Tetragonula bees like to occupy building gaps and holes in the stems of tall plants. Differences were found in the length of the hive entrance, the thickness of the hive door, the texture of the hive door, and the direction of the hive door for each species. Environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light intensity greatly affect colony activity, whereas wind speed and weather conditions affect the condition of the hive door. The presence of food sources around the hive also affects the survival of the colony and colony activity.