Diversity of insect pollinators and temporal distribution of Apis species in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) cv Kasuri Methi

Abstract

Pollination is vital for agricultural productivity, affecting both crop yield and quality. Insect-mediated pollination, particularly by species within the genus Apis, significantly enhances crop performance. This study investigates the diversity, abundance, and pollination effectiveness of insect pollinators, focusing on Apis species, in fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) fields in Bihar, India. Fenugreek, a crucial spice and medicinal herb, relies heavily on effective pollination for optimal seed production and quality. Conducted during the Rabi season of 2022-2023 at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, the study observed eighteen insect species across various orders, with Apis mellifera, Apis dorsata, Apis cerana indica, and Apis florea being the predominant pollinators. The analysis of bee abundance on fenugreek flowers indicated that Apis mellifera was the most frequent visitor, with an average of 10.04 bees per square meter per five minutes. It was followed by Apis dorsata at 5.94 bees/m²/5 min, Apis cerana indica at 3.30 bees/m²/5 min, and Apis florea at 3.12 bees/m²/5 min. The findings highlight temporal variations in bee abundance, with peak populations occurring around midday. The results underscore the importance of Apis species in fenugreek pollination and suggest that enhancing pollinator activity could boost fenugreek productivity. This research addresses the gap in understanding pollinator dynamics in varying agro-climatic conditions and provides insights for improving crop management practices and ensuring sustainable fenugreek cultivation.