Hybridization between European and African-derived honeybee populations (Apis mellifera) at different altitudes in Perú

Abstract

The current status of admixture between Apis mellifera of African and European origin was studied in populations from different altitudinal regions of Perú. Worker bees from 7 altitudinal regions were analysed by morphometrics and mtDNA RFLPs. Our results showed that the rates of admixture between African-derived and resident European populations have depended on the altitude of the region. Our finding of hybrid colonies at elevations above 2 500 m supports the hypothesis that climate alone may not restrain the northern limit of the distribution of African-derived honeybees in the Americas. We conclude that introgressive hybridization between African and European derived honeybees best explains the current patterns of distribution of morphotypes and mitotypes across the different regions of Peru.