Stingless bee resources during reforestation of the Atlantic domain of Rio De Janeiro city, Brazil

Abstract

Extensive farms were developed from the first settlements in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The scarcity of water year after year currently necessitates the reforestation of degraded areas to protect the remaining forestlands and water resources, mainly on hillsides. Native species of plants and stingless bees were introduced, with the main intention of pollination intensification and seed production to grow new shrubs and trees. These reforested areas produced honey and bee pot-pollen. The present study elucidated the pollination dynamics in three areas under reforestation (Serra da Posse area, Morro da Formiga area, and Serra dos Pretos Forros area) considering three native bee species (Nannotrigona testaceicornes, Tetragonisca angustula and Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides) and pollen analysis of bee products. For sample processing, neither the acetolysis methodology, nor staining was applied. Paired honey and pollen samples were considered, and in addition anemophilous and exotic pollen grains, as well as structured elements. It is suggested to intensify the planting of native trees and shrubs, such as Arecaceae, Mimosaceae, Myrtaceae, Alchornea, Anadenanthera, Piptadenia and Schizolobium, thus allowing the establishment of a diversity of parasitic Loranthaceae species appreciated by native bees. Food competition among bees was low. The vegetation in newly forested areas did not completely meet the food needs of the bees. The cultivation of a great diversity of native plants and bee species in degraded areas and under reforestation certainly yields a good result more quickly.