Characteristics of stingless bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini) from Universitas Andalas Limau manis campus complex and its implication in pollination and ecotourism

Abstract

Stingless bees, of the tribe Meliponini, subfamily Meliponinae and family Apidae, have been renowned as honey-producing bees and pollinators. An inventory survey on stingless bees was conducted at Universitas Andalas campus complex (UACC) between 2019-2022 with the aim of documenting their morphological characteristics and nesting behavior that are important for developing meliponiculture. It used direct observation and specimen collection at nest entrances, along with plant species identification from around the nests. A total of nine (37 % of stingless bee species known in Sumatra), of four genera, were recorded at different nesting spots within UACC. Five species were under genus Tetragonula, two of genus Lepidotrigona, and one each for genera Tetrigona and Heterotrigona. Tetragonula fuscobalteata was the smallest species found in this study, reaching 3.2 mm body length and less than 3.5 mm wing length. On the other hand, Tetrigona apicalis was the biggest species, measuring 7 mm body length and more than 7.2 mm wing length. Tetragonula consists of members with small bodies and inhabit either anthropogenic areas or natural habitats such as tree hollows, fences, wall crevices or other forms of cavity. Thirty-one plant families were recorded as potential resources around the stingless bee colonies. These families are dominated by Fabacease, Asteraceae, Moraceae, Euphorbiaceae and Verbenaceae. There might be differences in capacity to provide nectar, pollen, resin or gum among plant families; however, the diversity of plant species in the community should be complementary in providing resources for stingless bee colony. The nine stingless bee species recorded in this study possess an array of potential for meliponiculture and aesthetic purposes. Anthropogenic-tolerant species can be possibly reared and aesthetically integrated with decorative aspects of human settlement. The knowledge on existing stingless bee species, along with their biological aspects become crucial in initiating meliponiculture system within the University boundaries, with possible venture can be extended into ecotourism where people come and enjoy the beekeeping within this scenic University environment. Key words: Stingless bees, Taxonomy, Morphological, Meliponiculture, Pollinator, Ecotourism, Campus