In a first-of-its-kind initiative, researchers at Nagaland University have demonstrated that stingless bees can significantly enhance crop yield and quality through effective pollination – without the risk of stings. Their findings highlight the remarkable potential of these bees in agriculture, particularly in regions where traditional honeybee use is limited.
The study found that fruit set in king chilli increased from 21% to 29.46% when stingless bees were used as pollinators. In common chilli (Capsicum annuum), fruit development improved by nearly 8%, while seed weight – an important indicator of germination potential – rose by over 60%.
Led by Dr. Avinash Chauhan, Principal Investigator of the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Honeybees & Pollinators, the research team focused on two species of stingless bees: Tetragonula iridipennis and Lepidotrigona arcifera. These species were shown to not only improve fruit output but also enhance seed viability in chilli and king chilli.
Dr. Chauhan explained that the technique aims to address pollination gaps in crops, especially in situations where using honeybees is not feasible. He also stressed the importance of conserving other native pollinators such as Apis dorsata, Apis florea, halictid bees, and syrphid flies.
“The last 7 to 10 years of research gave us strong results. We not only had more crop yields, but the honey from these bees also generated extra income,” Dr Chauhan added. “We’re working on improving beekeeping practices and promoting awareness regarding the conservation of wild pollinators.”
The crops studied included cucumber, watermelon, citrus, tomato, brinjal, and dragon fruit. Researchers isolated stingless bee colonies from native forest habitats and introduced them into scientific hives, which were then placed in open fields and greenhouses.
About Stingless Bees
Stingless bees are native to the Northeast, South, and Eastern regions of India. Their scientific domestication began in Nagaland and has since expanded to Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh. This research marks a vital step toward sustainable agriculture and pollinator conservation. Future studies will explore the medicinal value of stingless bee honey and examine lesser-known crops like passion fruit and chow chow.