Qualitative analysis of Apis mellifera L. honey in an ecotone area in the Bahian semiarid

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the pollen types of 11 honey samples produced in apiaries of two cities in the State of Bahia, Brazil: Antônio Gonçalves (five samples) and Campo Formoso (six samples); to verify richness and diversity from each apiary and to compare the similarity among them. The samples were obtained from beekeepers according to the period of production and availability. The palynological analysis of these samples followed the standard procedures of melissopalynology with the use of acetolysis. The pollen types occurring in the honey samples were identified and at least 1,000 pollen grains per sample were counted to determine the frequency classes and the frequency of occurrence. Overall, 147 pollen types were detected, of which 143 are distributed in 35 botanical families. The most representative families concerning the number of pollen types were: Fabaceae (33), Asteraceae (18), Euphorbiaceae (11), Anacardiaceae and Malvaceae (09 types each), Rubiaceae (08) and Myrtaceae (07). The average value of pollen types per sample was 28.18. The genus that contributed the most was Mimosa L. (Fabaceae) with eight pollen types detected. The wealth of pollen types found revealed important information about the local flora which is explored by Apis mellifera. Therefore, it becomes an important tool to assist in the preservation and propagation of these plants and, consequently, increasing honey production.