Abstract
ABSTRACT - Melipona subnitida , popularly also known as jandaira , is the most frequently domesticated bee in the dry northeastern part of Brazil, and like most other stingless bee species nest in hollow spaces in trees. However, in a small region of Chapada do Araripe plateau the nest of this bee can also be regularly found within living arboreal termite nests of Constrictotermes cyphergaster . Here we describe the structure and content of such a bee nest when we transferred it from a formerly collected termite nest into a wooden nest box, and present complementary information based on an untouched, feral nest. We hypothesize whether or not this nesting habit of M. subnitida is an adaptation to a deficiency in pre-existing cavities in trees locally.
Highlights
The presence of nesting sites is essential to the survival, maintenance and reproduction of stingless bees (Meliponini) (Hubbell & Johnson, 1977; Batista et al, 2003; Eltz et al, 2003; Roubik, 2006)
Their nesting habits are variable, most of the stingless bee species build their nests in pre-existing cavities of trees, in termite and ant nests, or in other hollow spaces in the ground (Roubik, 1983; 2006)
Alternative nesting sites have been reported for some species, like Melipona marginata Lepeletier found in the crevices of human-constructed walls
Summary
The presence of nesting sites is essential to the survival, maintenance and reproduction of stingless bees (Meliponini) (Hubbell & Johnson, 1977; Batista et al, 2003; Eltz et al, 2003; Roubik, 2006). Their nesting habits are variable, most of the stingless bee species build their nests in pre-existing cavities of trees, in termite and ant nests, or in other hollow spaces in the ground (Roubik, 1983; 2006).
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
