Question

Apiculture refers to the care and management of honeybees. From the bee-variants below choose the one which is referred to as the European honey bee.

• A. Apis dorsata
• B. Apis mellifera
• C. Apis indica
• D. Apis florea

Answer 1

The correct option is B Apis mellifera

Apis mellifera, a European import since 1983 produces 75% of India’s honey. This high yielding variety of honey bee is notable for its production of 20 kg and 40 kg of honey per colony per year. It came into prominence when beekeeping as a cottage industry was announced by the Government of India.

Apis indica - Indian honeybee
Apis dorsata - Giant honeybee
Apis florea - Dwarf honeybee