Pollinator diversity, abundance and diurnal foraging patterns on onion (Allium cepa L.) In the agro-ecosystem of Sheoganj, Sirohi District, Rajasthan

Abstract

The study was conducted on onion (Allium cepa L.) crops during the flowering phase (February - April) of 2022 and 2023 in the agro-ecosystem of Arthwara village, Sheoganj Tehsil, Sirohi District, Rajasthan. A total of 15 insect pollinator species were documented belonging to 3 orders (Hymenoptera, Diptera, and Lepidoptera), 7 families and 13 genera. Hymenoptera was the most dominant order (96.33%), with Apis florea (19.69%) being the most abundant species followed by A. dorsata, Pseudapis oxybeloides and Halictus lucidipennis. Along with bees, other insect pollinators such as flies (Musca domestica), butterflies (Cigaritis sp.), and wasps (Vespa sp.) also played a role in pollination. Pollinator abundance and activity peaked between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm showing a clear diurnal foraging pattern. Native bees and other insect visitors exhibited higher activity during this period while early morning and late afternoon showed relatively lower visitation. Diversity indices indicated a diverse and well-balanced pollinator community on onion flowers. High Shannon (2.41) and Simpson’s Diversity (0.89) values reflect rich species diversity, while a high Evenness (0.89) shows uniform distribution of individuals among species within this agro-ecosystem.