Selective Breeding of Honeybees for Alfalfa Pollen: Fifth Generation and Backcrosses

Abstract

SummarySelection within lines for honeybees showing strong and weak tendencies toward collection of alfalfa pollen was continued through the fifth generation. In the line with a strong tendency (high line), the average percentage of pollen collectors collecting alfalfa pollen increased from 66% in the fourth generation to 85% in the fifth. In the line with the weak tendency (low line), the corresponding percentages were 8% and 18%. Backcrosses of the two lines resulted in an intermediate mean. At Howell, Utah, where other pollen than alfalfa was scarce, the percentages were 99% and 53% for the high and low lines respectively, and at Fielding, Utah, where other pollen was abundant, they were 54% and 2%. Although we have not compared the productive ability of the high line with that of commercial bees, results suggest that commercially useful strains could be developed.