Potential of moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia) in effective bee keeping of Apis mellifera ligustica Spinola colonies (Hymenoptera: Apidae) during autumn season

Abstract

Investigations carried out to assess the effectivity of moth bean (Vigna aconitifolia) through various combinations with millets (Pennisetum glaucum), imported pollens (mixed), honey and powdered sugar, used as suitable substitute of natural food (pollen and rector) showed that feeding bee colonies with pollen diet alone (treatment P) resulted in superior capped workers brood area, unsealed honey stored area, pollen (bee bread) stored area and number of frames occupied by bees. Among other combinations with pollen, the bean combination PB (pollen+ moth bean flour + powder sugar + honey) was the second followed by PMB (pollen+ pearl millet = moth bean +). When used without pollens the moth bean was found most effective in producing capped workers brood area, the unsealed honey stored area, pollen stored area and a number of frames occupied by bees.