Comparative Morphometric Studies of European Honey Bee (Apis mellifera L.) at Different Altitudes of Kashmir Region, India

Abstract

European honey bee (Apis mellifera L.,) was introduced in Kashmir during late 19th century and since, then its domestication is continued in diverse conditions of Kashmir region. It appears well adapted to unique climatic conditions of the valley. In order to analyse diversification in its characters during ecological adaptations to different altitudes and climatic conditions, morphological characterization of Apis mellifera was employed at different altitudes of Kashmir region. Samples of honey bees were obtained from nine locations representing three different altitudes viz., high, medium and low of Kashmir. Total of 17 characters were measured at three different altitudes. Highly significant difference (p≤0.01) in 15 characters were observed was observed among three altitudes. The three main characters viz., proboscis length, fore wing length and cubital index were compared with earlier data as reported by Ruttner (1988). The proboscis length (6.35±0.06 mm) at high altitude, forewing length (9.21±0.01 mm) at mid altitude, cubital index at low altitude (2.55±0.08 mm) were found same or close to A. mellifera ligustica. However, other parameters did not support presence of this sub-species, therefore, it can be conclude that A. mellifera might have undergone degradations in its certain characters after its introduction in Kashmir region due to diverse climate conditions.