Alfalfa Flower Aroma and Flower Selection by Honey Bees1

Abstract

Honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) selection among flowers from seven clonal lines of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) presented in bouquets for three consecutive days was consistent from day to day and similar to results reported at a different locality. Flower aroma differences were noted as a possible basis for this selection. A gas chromatographic technique is described for collecting and separating components of flower aroma from intact plants. The flower aromas of three alfalfa clones were shown to differ greatly in their volatile components.