Morphometric Characterization of Apis mellifera (Italian Honey Bee) Across Different Agroclimatic Zones of Kumaun Region of Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

This study investigated the morphometry of Apis mellifera across three diverse locations in Uttarakhand, spanning the Tarai irrigated (Pantnagar), Bhabar Irrigated (Nainital) and High hills (Almora), to explore regional adaptations and environmental influences. Significant regional differences were observed, with populations from high hills exhibiting larger dimensions, whereas populations from Tarai irrigated showed smaller size. The morphological characteristics of Apis mellifera worker bees were analyzed. A total of 13 morphological characters were measured using a stereo zoom microscope in combination with VUE software. The results suggest that morphometric variations can potentially distinguish intraspecific groups of honeybee colonies, identifying them as distinct ecotypes. Morphometric analysis of wings and body partsprovides valuable insights into honeybee biodiversity studies To facilitate species identification based on morphometric traits, Apis mellifera samples were collected. 40 worker bee samples were analyzed, and 13 morphometric characteristics were measured in the entomology laboratory at G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUA&T). The biometric data were analyzed by calculating the mean, range, standard error, and coefficient of variation.