Nesting behaviour of stingless bees, Tetragonula spp. in middle Gujarat

Abstract

Nesting behaviour of stingless bees, Tetragonula spp.” was studied at the campus of Anand Agricultural University, Anand during July, 2022 and January, 2023. Total 108 colonies were found at various locations of AAU campus. Among them, the highest colony was located in wall cavities followed by window cavities, and few colonies were observed in tree cavities, pipe and electric meter. The wall was most preferred nesting site of stingless bees. The nesting height of stingless bee colonies vary depending on their nesting sites. The colonies located in wall cavities was at the highest height above ground, followed by window cavities and trees. While, colonies in pipes and electric meter located at shortest height. The entrance tube of stingless bee colonies was vary in shape and dimensions. The colonies in window cavity exhibited maximum length and width of entrance tube followed by wall cavities, trees and electric meters, however pipe showed the minimum dimension of entrance tube.