Apiculture potential in protected areas: The case of udzungwa mountains national park, tanzania

Abstract

Information on nesting behaviour, productivity in natural tree cavities and man-made hives and natural enemies of resident stinging honeybee sub-species was gathered for a period of 1 year in Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Tanzania. Three sub-species of the honeybee Apis mellifera occur in this area. Six types of hive were sited in appropriate locations and colony dynamics studied. The bees also nested in tree cavities facing east and west, and also in most types of hive, with the exception of burnt brick ground level 'Chikka' hives. There were few natural enemies of bees in the area. The density of honeybee colonies per hectare, occupancy of various types of hive and quantity of honey and beeswax harvested from various types of hive all favoured beekeeping in this area. Development of apiculture in the area and its role in conservation of the Udzungwa ecosystem are discussed. © 2009 Taylor & Francis.