Diversity of melliferous Flora (Apiaries) in Honey and microscopic authentication using LM and SEM Techniques

Abstract

The diversity of melliferous flora is significant for sustaining healthy apiaries and apicultural research for the production of high-quality and quantity honey. This study aims to explore the richness and variety of melliferous plant species within apiaries, focusing on their role in honey yield and subsequently employing advanced microscopy techniques for their microscopic authentication. The study aimed to investigate the palyno-morphological features of selected bee floral species of the study area in the autumn and spring seasons. The pollen slides were prepared using the acetolysis method. Both qualitative and quantitative data of pollen grains were examined by LM and SEM. The four different types of ornamentation (scabrate, echinate, psilate, and reticulate) were observed in the morphological features of pollen. The maximum number of melliferous species was observed in the Fabaceae family (11 species) and the Asteraceae family (10 species). The LM and SEM techniques were recorded as the best tools to study the features of correct taxonomic identification and explore the valuable potential of melliferous flora and apiary resources for beekeepers. This finding contributes to a deeper understanding of a bee floral source of honey, ensuring its authenticity, purity, and nutritional value as well as ecological interaction between honeybee population and bee-floral diversity. Additionally, the finding highlights the significance of conserving and preserving melliferous flora for sustainable development of the apiculture industry, emphasizing the role of bee apiaries as essential resources for the bee population. The palynological features will help identify melliferous plants' potential in taxonomy, honey botanical, geographical origin, and pure honey availability in the local and international markets. This study provides knowledge about the species identifications, botanical and geographical origin of floral sources, and honeybees along with honey.