Using Q-methodology to Understand The Human Interactions with Pollinating Insects in Mayotte (French Island, Indian Ocean of East Africa)

Abstract

In 2021, the French government launched a five-year national action plan aimed at fighting the decline in pollinator insect populations. The application of this plan to Mayotte (Indian Ocean) presents a real chance to enhance scientific knowledge of these living creatures and the connections that humans have with them. This part of the world has not conducted any research on this topic yet. The Q methodology is used to determine our results, which are based on a preference ranking of thirty-nine photos that illustrate five themes related to pollinating insects. The sorting conducted by respondents (n = 29) identified four profiles that integrate ecological, economic, and cultural considerations to varying degrees. The profile that emphasizes ecology is probably only applicable to a small part of Mayotte's population since it has been developed by respondents with higher education qualifications. In other profiles, pollinating insects are ignored, otherwise dreaded or hated. The honey bee is a special species, not only because it provides people with honey, a natural product whose medicinal properties are recognised locally, but also because a verse in the Koran is dedicated to it. With 95% of the population declaring themselves to be Muslim, religion probably contributes to the value of honey bees.