Abstract Jalisco is one of the foremost honey-producing states in Mexico. However, there is no information on viral diseases that affect honey bees (Apis mellifera) in the different beekeeping regions of the state. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and intensity of four viral diseases of Apis mellifera during the spring, in six regions of Jalisco. Bee samples from 79 colonies were analyzed, of which, 66 % and 38 % were positive for black queen cell virus (BQCV) and deformed wing virus (DWV), respectively. Two viral diseases were not detected, those caused by the Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV) and the chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV). The infection levels of BQCV were relatively low but elevated for DWV, with infection intensities 8,000 higher than those of BQCV. The prevalence of DWV was significantly higher in the regions of the Highlands, Center, and South, while for BQCV there were no differences between regions. For infection intensity, there were no differences between regions for DWV, but there were for BQCV. The regions with the highest infection levels were the South and Center. Surveys during other seasons of the year are recommended to identify possible seasonal viral effects on the bees and to design control strategies.

Resumen El estado de Jalisco es un importante productor de miel de abejas en México. Sin embargo, no existe información sobre las virosis que afectan a las abejas melíferas (Apis mellifera) en las diferentes regiones apícolas de la entidad. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la prevalencia e intensidad de cuatro enfermedades virales de Apis mellifera durante la primavera, en seis regiones de Jalisco. Se analizaron abejas de 79 colonias, de las cuales, el 66 y 38 % fueron positivas al virus de la celda real negra (VCRN) y al virus de las alas deformes (VAD), respectivamente. Dos virosis no fueron detectadas, las causadas por el virus de la parálisis aguda Israelí (VPAI) y la causada por el virus de la parálisis crónica (VPC). Los niveles de infección fueron relativamente bajos para el VCRN, pero elevados para el VAD, cuyas infecciones fueron 8,000 veces más altas que las del VCRN. La prevalencia del VAD fue significativamente más alta en las regiones de los Altos, Centro y Sur, mientras que para el VCRN no hubo diferencias entre regiones. Para la intensidad de infecciones, no hubo diferencias entre regiones para el VAD, pero sí para el VCRN. Las regiones con niveles de infección más altos fueron la Sur y Centro. Se recomienda realizar muestreos en otras épocas del año para detectar posibles efectos estacionales de las virosis de las abejas y diseñar estrategias para su control.

RESUMEN Con el objetivo de evaluar la morfología del polen en especies melíferas del bosque seco tropical del recinto Quimis, se seleccionaron cinco apiarios distribuidos en dicha formación vegetal, se recolectaron las cargas de polen obtenidas directamente de los apiarios y se registró la flora apícola de acuerdo al tiempo de floración. Los resultados revelaron 21 especies melíferas pertenecientes a 13 familias y 21 géneros, Convolvulus arvensis, Eriotheca ruizii, Ceiba trischistandra y Prosopis pallida las especies más frecuentes y la familia más abundante fue la Fabaceae. En relación con las unidades de polen, el 0,95 % corresponde al tipo mónada y referente a la simetría, el 0,67 % se caracteriza por ser de tipo radiosimétrico, mientras que el 0,48 % presenta aberturas tricolporadas. Con respecto a la forma de la exina, el 0,43 % exhibe una forma psilada, y el 0,38 % mostró forma esferoidal. Los meses de mayor floración coincidieron con junio, julio y agosto, que corresponden a la temporada seca. La gran mayoría de las especies nectaríferas y poliníferas resultaron ser dominantes, con la excepción de Bonellia sprucei, Caesalpinia paipai y Trema micrantha, Muntingia calabura, Cojoba arborea, Sarcomphalus thyrsiflorus, Bursera graveolens, las cuales solo proporcionan polen y Cordia lutea y Cynophalla sclerophylla, que son productoras de néctar.

RESUMO Com o objetivo de avaliar a morfologia polínica de espécies melíferas na floresta tropical seca do Recinto dos Quimis, foram selecionados cinco apiários distribuídos nessa formação vegetal, coletadas cargas de pólen obtidas diretamente dos apiários e registrada a flora apícola de acordo com a época de floração. Os resultados revelaram 21 espécies melíferas pertencentes a 13 famílias e 21 gêneros, sendo que Convolvulus arvensis, Eriotheca ruizii, Ceiba trischistandra e Prosopis pallida foram as espécies mais frequentes e a família mais abundante foi Fabaceae. Em relação às unidades polínicas, 0,95% corresponde ao tipo mônada e, com relação à simetria, 0,67% é caracterizado pelo tipo radiossimétrico, enquanto 0,48% tem aberturas tricolporadas. Com relação à forma da exina, 0,43% exibiu uma forma psilada e 0,38% uma forma esferoidal. Os meses de pico de floração coincidiram com junho, julho e agosto, que correspondem à estação seca. A grande maioria das espécies produtoras de néctar e poliníferas foi considerada dominante, com exceção de Bonellia sprucei, Caesalpinia paipai e Trema micrantha, Muntingia calabura, Cojoba arborea, Sarcomphalus thyrsiflorus, Bursera graveolens, que fornecem apenas pólen, e Cordia lutea e Cynophalla sclerophylla, que são produtoras de néctar.

ABSTRACT With the objective of evaluating the morphology of pollen in honey species from the tropical dry forest of the Quimis enclosure, five apiaries distributed in said plant formation were selected, the pollen loads obtained directly from the apiaries were collected and the bee flora was recorded according to the flowering time. The results revealed 21 honey species belonging to 13 families and 21 genera, being Convolvulus arvensis, Eriotheca ruizii, Ceiba trischistandra and Prosopis pallida the most common species and the most abundant family was Fabaceae. In relation to the pollen units, 0.95% corresponds to the monad type and referring to symmetry, 0.67% is characterized by being of the radiosymmetric type, while 0.48% has tricolporate openings. Regarding the shape of the exine, 0.43% exhibited a psyllate shape, and 0.38% showed a spheroidal shape. The months of greatest flowering coincided with June, July and August, which correspond to the dry season. The vast majority of nectariferous and polliniferous species were dominant, with the exception of Bonellia sprucei, Caesalpinia paipai and Trema micrantha, Muntingia calabura, Cojoba arborea, Sarcomphalus thyrsiflorus, Bursera graveolens, which only provide pollen and Cordia lutea and Cynophalla sclerophylla, which are nectar producers.

Abstract Jalisco is one of the main honey bee producing states in Mexico. However, information on the parasitoses that affect the productivity of honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies in the state is limited and addresses only a few regions. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and intensity of two parasitic diseases of Apis mellifera -varroosis (Varroa destructor) and nosemosis (Vairimorpha spp.)- in six regions of Jalisco. Bees from 365 colonies collected during the spring were analyzed. Varroosis was the most frequent parasitosis (90 %), and nosemosis was the least frequent (15 %). The infestation or infection levels of these parasitoses were generally low: <5 % (mites per 100 bees) for varroosis, and <310,000 spores/bee for nosemosis. The regions with the highest prevalence and intensity of V. destructor were the Highlands, the Center, and the South, while infections by Vairimorpha ceranae -the only species of the fungus found- were significantly higher in the Southeastern and Southern regions. It is advisable to carry out epidemiological studies at other times of the year in order to detect possible seasonal effects of parasitoses for the purpose of designing strategies for their control.

Resumen Jalisco es uno de los principales estados productores de miel de abejas en México. Sin embargo, la información sobre parasitosis que afectan la productividad de las colonias de abejas melíferas (Apis mellifera) en el estado es limitada y de pocas regiones. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la prevalencia e intensidad de dos enfermedades parasitarias de Apis mellifera, varroosis (Varroa destructor) y nosemosis (Vairimorpha spp.), en seis regiones de Jalisco. Se analizaron abejas de 365 colonias colectadas durante la primavera. La varroosis fue la parasitosis más frecuente (90 %) y la nosemosis la menos frecuente (15 %). Los niveles de infestación o infección de las parasitosis fueron en general bajos. Para varroosis, <5 % (ácaros en 100 abejas) y para nosemosis, <310,000 esporas/abeja. Las regiones con mayor prevalencia e intensidad de V. destructor fueron Altos, Centro y Sur, mientras que las infecciones por Vairimorpha ceranae, la única especie del hongo encontrada, fueron significativamente más altas en las regiones Sureste y Sur. Se recomienda realizar estudios epidemiologicos en otras épocas del año para detectar posibles efectos estacionales de las parasitosis para diseñar estrategias para su control.

Resumo A atividade antioxidante do mel de Tetragonisca angustula (TAH) e seu extrato etanólico (TAEE) foram investigados. Os níveis totais de fenólicos (TPC) e flavonóides (TFC) também foram avaliados. Os resultados para TPC foram 19,91 ± 0,38 e 29,37 ± 1,82 mg GAE g-1 e para TFC 0,20 ± 0,02 e 0,14 ± 0,01 mg QE g-1 de TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. As atividades antioxidantes foram 73,29 ± 0,49% e 93,36 ± 0,27% no ensaio DPPH● e 71,73 ± 4,07% e 97,86 ± 0,35% no ABTS●+ para TAH e TAEE, respectivamente. A atividade redutora total foi determinada pelo método de poder redutor (PR) e íon ferrico (Fe III) e os resultados variaram em PR de 151,7 ± 25,7 e 230,7 ± 25,2 mg GAE L-1, para TAH e TAEE respectivamente e para (Fe III) em EC50 0,284 em TAEE e 0,687 em TAH. A análise química por HPLC-DAD do extrato etanólico (TAEE) revelou a presença de ácido ferúlico como componente majoritário no extrato. A análise de RMN 1H confirmou esta estrutura e mostrou a presença de glicose, ácido cítrico, ácido succínico, prolina e derivados de hidrocarbonetos no TAEE. Além disso, a origem botânica também foi investigada e apresentou característica multifloral, tendo encontrado 19 tipos polínicos com predomínio botânico da família Anacardiaceae, sendo o pólen Tapirira predominante (42,6%) e o Schinus secundário (25,7%). Os resultados mostraram que o mel de T. angustula é uma interessante fonte de compostos fenólicos antioxidantes devido à sua origem floral e pode atuar como protetor da saúde humana quando consumido.

Abstract The antioxidant activity of Tetragonisca angustula honey (TAH) and its ethanolic extract (TAEE) were investigated. The total levels of phenolic (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) were also evaluated. The results for TPC were 19.91 ± 0.38 and 29.37 ± 1.82 mg GAE g-1 and for TFC 0.20 ± 0.02 and 0.14 ± 0.01 mg QE g-1 of TAH and TAEE, respectively. Antioxidant activities were 73.29 ± 0.49% and 93.36 ± 0.27% in the DPPH● assay and 71.73 ± 4.07% and 97.86 ± 0.35% in ABTS●+ for TAH and TAEE, respectively. The total reducing activity was determined by the method of reducing power (PR) and iron ion (Fe III) and the results varied in PR from 151.7 ± 25.7 and 230.7 ± 25.2 mg GAE L-1, for TAH and TAEE respectively and for (Fe III) in EC50 0.284 in TAEE and 0.687 in TAH. Chemical analysis by HPLC-DAD of the ethanolic extract (TAEE) revealed the presence of ferulic acid as majority phenolic component in the extract. The 1H NMR analysis confirmed this structure and showed the also presence of glucose, citric acid, succinic acid, proline and hydrocarbon derivatives. In addition, the botanical origin was also investigated and showed a multifloral characteristic, having found 19 pollen types with a botanical predominance of the Anacardiaceae family, with Tapirira pollen occurring as predominant (42.6%) and Schinus as secondary (25.7%). The results showed that T. angustula honey is an interesting source of antioxidant phenolic compounds due to its floral origin and can act as a protector of human health when consumed.

Resumo A identificação da flora com potencial meliponícola é fundamental para a preservação das abelhas, além de possibilitar o desenvolvimento de programas de manejo de polinizadores e reflorestamento. Nesse contexto, este estudo teve como objetivo investigar os tipos de pólen encontrados nos potes de mel e pólen da abelha Melipona fasciculata em Arari-Ma, durante o período de agosto de 2022 a julho de 2023. Foram identificados 40 tipos de pólen distribuídos em 18 famílias botânicas, com destaque para Fabaceae (46,15% nos potes de pólen e 37,86% nos potes de mel), Myrtaceae (11,53% em pólen e 13,51% em mel) e Rubiaceae com 7,69% em pólen e 5,40% em mel. Sapindaceae, nos potes de mel, representou 5,40%. As demais famílias apresentaram percentuais menores, sendo 3,84% nos potes de pólen e 2,70% nos potes de mel. Quanto à similaridade, tanto nos potes de pólen quanto nos de mel, foram observados dois grupos distintos. Nos potes de pólen, o grupo A (mai-jun ~ 97%) e o grupo B (fev-mar ~ 99%) se destacaram, enquanto nos potes de mel, o grupo A (mar-abr ~ 98%) e o grupo B (jun-jul-set ~ 98%) apresentaram maiores percentuais. Essas descobertas ressaltam a ampla gama de recursos utilizados pela espécie M. fasciculata, bem como sua preferência por Fabaceae e Myrtaceae, devido à diversidade e disponibilidade dos recursos tróficos. A compreensão da flora meliponícola é fundamental para embasar estratégias eficazes de conservação, que visam não apenas garantir a sobrevivência das abelhas, mas também assegurar a continuidade da produção de mel, um recurso de grande importância para as comunidades locais. abelhas reflorestamento contexto ArariMa, ArariMa Arari Ma, Ma Arari-Ma 202 2023 4 1 botânicas 46,15% 4615 46 15 (46,15 3786 37 86 37,86 , 11,53% 1153 11 53 (11,53 1351 13 51 13,51 769 7 69 7,69 540 5 5,40 Sapindaceae menores 384 3 84 3,84 270 2 70 2,70 similaridade distintos maijun mai jun 97% 97 fevmar fev mar 99% 99 destacaram marabr abr 98% 98 junjulset jul set M tróficos conservação locais 20 46,15 461 (46,1 378 8 37,8 11,53 115 (11,5 135 13,5 76 6 7,6 54 5,4 38 3,8 27 2,7 9 46,1 (46, 37, 11,5 (11, 13, 7, 5, 3, 2, 46, (46 11, (11 (4 (1 (

Abstract The identification of meliponicultural flora is fundamental for the preservation of bees, as well as enabling the development of pollinator management and reforestation programs. In this context, this study aimed to investigate the types of pollen found in the honey and pollen pots of the Melipona fasciculata bee in Arari, State of Maranhão, between August 2022 and July 2023. 40 types of pollen were identified, distributed among 18 botanical families, with Fabaceae standing out (46.15% in pollen pots and 37.86% in honey pots), Myrtaceae (11.53% in pollen and 13.51% in honey) and Rubiaceae (7.69% in pollen and 5.40% in honey). Sapindaceae, in the honey pots, accounted for 5.40%. The other families showed lower percentages, 3.84% in the pollen pots and 2.70% in the honey pots. In terms of similarity, two distinct groups were observed in both the pollen and honey pots. In the pollen pots, group A (May-June ~ 97%) and group B (Feb-Mar ~ 99%) stood out, while in the honey pots, group A (Mar-Apr ~ 98%) and group B (Jun-Jul-Sept ~ 98%) showed the highest percentages. These findings highlight the wide range of resources used by the M. fasciculata species, as well asits preference for Fabaceae and Myrtaceae, due to the diversity and availability of trophic resources. An understanding of the meliponicultural flora is essential to support effective conservation strategies, which aim not only to guarantee the survival of the bees, but also to ensure the continued production of honey, a resource of great importance to local communities. bees programs context Arari Maranhão 202 2023 4 identified 1 46.15% 4615 46 15 (46.15 3786 37 86 37.86 , pots) 11.53% 1153 11 53 (11.53 1351 13 51 13.51 7.69% 769 7 69 (7.69 540 5 5.40 honey. . Sapindaceae percentages 384 3 84 3.84 270 2 70 2.70 similarity MayJune May June 97% 97 FebMar Feb Mar 99% 99 MarApr Apr 98% 98 JunJulSept Jun Jul Sept M species strategies communities 20 46.15 461 (46.1 378 8 37.8 11.53 115 (11.5 135 13.5 7.69 76 6 (7.6 54 5.4 38 3.8 27 2.7 9 46.1 (46. 37. 11.5 (11. 13. 7.6 (7. 5. 3. 2. 46. (46 11. (11 7. (7 (4 (1 (

Abstract The honey bee Apis mellifera is a plant-pollinator that produces commercial products. It has female castes with workers performing tasks in the colonies and a queen, it has the longest lifespan, in charge of reproduction. This bee undergoes a population decline worldwide. Therefore, it is important to understand how aging affects the digestive tract of this insect. In the midgut, regenerative cells are organized in nests replacing the dead cells. This study verified the hypothesis that the number of regenerative cells decreases as A. mellifera queen ages. The midgut was evaluated in queens at the age of four days and eight, 11 and 25 months. The midgut of 11- and 25-month-old queens presented signs of epithelial disorganization in comparison with younger queens. The number of regenerative cell nests in the midgut decreases according to the age of the queen, but the number of cells per nest is similar. The decreased number of regenerative cell nests reveals a potential loss in the amount of these cells available for the renewal of the midgut epithelium. The absence of variations in the number of regenerative cells per nest according to the queen age indicates that these cells do not undergo proliferation before the differentiation. plantpollinator plant pollinator products lifespan reproduction worldwide Therefore insect A ages eight 1 2 months 25monthold monthold month old similar epithelium differentiation

Abstract Honey is a natural food derived from nectar and other natural plant secretions, collected, and processed by bees. To be safely consumed, it must be free of chemical contamination and have quality and identity parameters following established standards. The continuous search for agricultural productivity has increased the use of pesticides, widely used in crops. Residues of these compounds have been found in honey samples. This work aimed to determine the physicochemical parameters and verify the presence of pesticides in Apis mellifera bee honey sold in the regions of Pelotas and Rio Grande/in Rio Grande do Sul state (RS)/ Brazil. The honey samples presented values for the physicochemical parameters within the acceptable limits established by Brazilian legislation. Among the 100 pesticides investigated, the insecticide λ-cyhalothrin was detected in 50% of the samples in concentrations between 5.95 and 25.30 µg/kg. The calculated estimated daily intake was 1.0×10-4 µg/kg bw/day, below the maximum limits Brazilian and European legislation recommended. The results contribute to the generation of data on the quality of honey produced in the region, thus ensuring safe consumption, however, it causes an alert about the environmental contamination by the pollinators bee’s exposure to pesticides in regions with intense agricultural activity. secretions collected bees consumed standards crops Grandein RS/ RS / (RS) Brazil 10 investigated λcyhalothrin λ cyhalothrin 50 595 5 95 5.9 2530 25 30 25.3 µgkg µg kg 1.0×104 10104 1.0×10 4 1 0 1.0×10- bwday bw day bw/day recommended region consumption however s activity (RS 59 9 5. 253 2 3 25. 104 1010 1.0×1 101 1.0× 1.0 1.

Abstract Among the hive products of stingless bees (SB), honey is distinguished because it has different physicochemical properties than the honey produced by Apis mellifera. Its taste is more acidic and less sweet, and it naturally contains a higher percentage of water. Honey is one of the most frequently adulterated products marketed. Therefore, this work aimed to verify if the qualitative tests performed for A. mellifera honey are also valid for SB honey from Tetragonisca angustula, Melipona quadrifasciata, and Tetragona elongata and if they can detect the most common adulterations. Adulterations of SB honey with corn syrup, inverted sugar, and A. mellifera honey were simulated and tested with Lugol, Fiehe, and Lund reactions. For these three analyses, sample volume reduction was also tested. The Lund test did not work well with honey samples from SB because they have a higher water content, and reliable results could not be obtained. For the other two tests, the sample volume reduction used was efficient. The Fiehe test detected adulteration with corn syrup only. The Lugol test detected corn syrup and inverted sugar adulterations in all dilutions for all three SB species. No adulteration by added water or honey from A. mellifera was detected in any test. Therefore, using the qualitative Lugol’s reaction test to evaluate SB honey quality is reasonably affordable. Since it is a rapid and inexpensive test, it allows the development of production chains for SB honey. Thus, detecting inauthentic honey can be done by combining qualitative tests as the first screening, followed by quantitative tests if necessary. SB, , (SB) sweet marketed Therefore A angustula quadrifasciata reactions analyses content obtained efficient only species Lugols s affordable Thus screening necessary (SB

Resumo Entre os produtos da colmeia de abelhas sem ferrão, o mel se destaca por possuir propriedades físico-químicas diferentes do mel produzido pela abelha Apis mellifera. Seu sabor é mais ácido e menos doce, além de naturalmente conter maior porcentagem de água. O mel é um dos produtos mais frequentemente adulterados comercialmente. Dessa forma, este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar se os testes qualitativos realizados para o mel de A. mellifera também são válidos para o mel de abelhas sem ferrão das espécies Tetragonisca angustula, Melipona quadrifasciata e Tetragona elongata, e se é possível identificar suas adulterações mais comuns: adulterações do mel de abelhas sem ferrão com xarope de milho, açúcar invertido e mel de A. mellifera foram simuladas e testadas com as reações de Lugol, Fiehe e Lund. Para essas três análises, também foi testada a redução do volume da amostra. O teste de Lund não foi efetivo com as amostras de mel das abelhas sem ferrão, pois elas apresentam um maior teor de água, e resultados confiáveis não puderam ser obtidos. Para os outros dois testes, a redução do volume da amostra utilizada foi eficiente. O teste de Fiehe detectou adulteração apenas com xarope de milho. O teste de Lugol detectou adulterações com xarope de milho e açúcar invertido em todas as diluições utilizadas e para todas as três espécies de abelhas sem ferrão. As adulterações por adição de água ou mel de A. mellifera não foram detectadas em nenhum dos testes. Portanto, é possível utilizar o teste qualitativo da reação de Lugol para uma avaliação inicial da qualidade do mel. Como é um teste rápido e de baixo custo, ele permite o desenvolvimento de cadeias produtivas para o mel de abelhas sem ferrão. Assim, a detecção de mel inautêntico pode ser feita por uma abordagem combinada de testes qualitativos como triagem inicial, seguida de testes quantitativos, se necessário. físicoquímicas físico químicas doce comercialmente forma A angustula elongata comuns análises obtidos eficiente Portanto custo Assim quantitativos necessário

Abstract Objective: This work analyzes the implications of opportunistic practices derived from information asymmetries in the honey market, as well as the role of Information Systems as a strategy to improve the distribution of information among agents. Methodology: Through the analysis of the literature in Business Economics, the importance of Information Systems to improve efficiency in the markets is identified. Results: The mechanisms to reduce opportunistic behaviors include the use of government regulations, and Information Systems. In the case of Mexican honey, there is government regulation NOM-004-SAG/GAN-2018, as well as some certifications and Denomination of Origin proposals. The development of differentiated market niches is proposed to boost the performance of the sector, where producers can compete based on reputation for quality and benefits, beyond price. Limitations: The findings are based on the literature review carried out; however, when facing a complex problem, having instruments developed in economic thinking enriches the discussion and encourages finding solutions from a multidisciplinary approach. Conclusions: Opportunistic behaviors reduce market efficiency and the ability to compete, so Information Systems can contribute to minimizing information asymmetries and generating benefits for economic agents.

Resumen Objetivo: Analizar las implicaciones de las prácticas oportunistas derivadas de asimetrías de información en el mercado de la miel, así como el rol de los Sistemas de Información como estrategia para mejorar la distribución de la información entre los agentes. Metodología: Mediante el análisis de la literatura en Economía de la Empresa se identifica la importancia de los Sistemas de Información para mejorar la eficiencia en los mercados. Resultados: Los mecanismos para aminorar los comportamientos oportunistas incluyen el uso de las regulaciones gubernamentales y los Sistemas de Información En el caso de la miel mexicana, existe la regulación gubernamental NOM-004-SAG/GAN-2018, así como algunas certificaciones y propuestas de Denominación de Origen. Se propone el desarrollo de nichos de mercados diferenciados para impulsar el desempeño del sector, donde los productores puedan competir basados en la reputación de la calidad y los beneficios, más allá del precio. Limitaciones: Los hallazgos se basan en la revisión de literatura efectuada, no obstante, al enfrentar una problemática compleja, disponer de instrumentos desarrollados en el pensamiento económico enriquece la discusión y propicia encontrar soluciones desde un enfoque multidisciplinar. Conclusiones: Los comportamientos oportunistas merman la eficiencia del mercado y la capacidad de competir, por lo que los Sistemas de Información pueden contribuir a minimizar las asimetrías de información y a generar beneficios para los agentes económicos.

Abstract Mexico is one of the world’s foremost producers and exporters of bees’ honey (Apis mellifera L.), and the state of Jalisco is one of the top three honey producers in Mexico. However, the Mexican beekeeping industry is affected by the high defensive behavior and lower honey production of Africanized honey bees compared to European bees. The objective of this study was to determine the African or European ancestry of honey bee colonies in six regions of temperate and subtropical climates in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, using morphometric and mitochondrial DNA analyses. More than 50% of the colonies in Jalisco had African mitotype and morphotype (59.0% and 62.5%, respectively). The frequency of africanization of the studied colonies was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in regions of low altitude and in subtropical climates, such as the Southeast and Southwest regions, than in regions of higher elevation and in temperate climates, such as Los Altos. There was a significant correlation between the forewing length of the bees and the altitude at which their colonies were located (r = 0.51, p< 0.01), indicating that the lower the altitude, the higher the degree of africanization of the bees. Future studies are warranted to determine if the degree of africanization of honey bee colonies increases or remains in equilibrium. These studies will make it posible to design mitigation strategies against the negative effects of the africanization of honey bees.

Resumen México es de los principales productores y exportadores de miel de abejas (Apis mellifera L.) a nivel mundial y el estado de Jalisco se encuentra entre los tres primeros productores a nivel nacional. Sin embargo, la apicultura mexicana es afectada por el alto comportamiento defensivo y menor productividad de las abejas africanizadas en comparación con abejas europeas. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la ancestría africana o europea de colonias de abejas melíferas en seis regiones de clima templado y subtropical en el estado de Jalisco, México, mediante análisis morfométricos y de ADN mitocondrial. Más del 50% de las colonias de abejas de Jalisco tuvieron mitotipo y morfotipo africano (59.0 y 62.5%, respectivamente). La frecuencia de africanización de las colonias fue significativamente mayor (p < 0.05) en regiones de baja altitud y climas subtropicales (regiones Sureste y Suroeste), que en regiones de mayor elevación y en climas templados (región de los Altos). Hubo correlación significativa entre la longitud del ala de las abejas y la altitud a la que se encontraban las colonias (r = 0.51, p < 0.01); esto indica que a menor altitud hay un mayor grado de africanización de las abejas. Se recomiendan realizar estudios para determinar si el grado de africanización de las colonias de abejas aumenta o se mantiene en equilibrio, lo que permitirá diseñar estrategias de amortiguamiento de los efectos negativos de la africanización de las abejas melíferas.

Resumen La miel es una solución sobresaturada de azúcares que además contiene pequeñas cantidades de enzimas, vitaminas, compuestos fenólicos (por ejemplo, flavonoides), terpenos, ácidos orgánicos y peróxido de hidrógeno. La presencia de estas sustancias explica la actividad biológica de la miel y la absorción de radiación ultravioleta. La miel es uno de los tres alimentos más adulterados a nivel mundial. Para detectar dichas adulteraciones se utilizan técnicas de alta complejidad y sensibilidad, como el análisis isotópico y la resonancia magnética nuclear. Sin embargo, un método analítico más simple, rápido, de bajo costo y más accesible sería más conveniente para realizar análisis de alimentos, particularmente para productos apícolas. En este sentido, la espectroscopia UV-Vis junto con el análisis quimiométrico se han utilizado amplia y exitosamente para analizar productos apícolas. Por lo tanto, este estudio tiene como objetivo validar una metodología basada en el uso de espectroscopía UV-Vis acoplada al análisis quimiométricos para diferenciar el néctar recién recolectado por las abejas de la miel parcialmente madura y de la miel. Se recolectaron muestras de diferentes orígenes geográficos y botánicos en dos localidades de Argentina; un ensayo se realizó en Tucumán (en el flujo principal de néctar de limón) y el otro en Entre Ríos (floración de eucaliptos). Se registraron espectros entre 190 nm y 420 nm y se aplicaron diferentes métodos de proyección, incluyendo el análisis de componentes principales, FreeViz y el análisis discriminante lineal. De los resultados se concluye que la espectroscopía UV-Vis acoplada al análisis quimiométrico permite diferenciar el néctar recientemente recolectado de la miel parcialmente madura y de la miel y que los compuestos fenólicos están presentes principalmente en la miel, lo que podría incidir favorablemente en su actividad biológica.

Abstract Honey is a supersaturated solution of sugars that also contains small amounts of enzymes, vitamins, phenolic compounds (e.g., flavonoids), terpenes, organic acids and hydrogen peroxide. The presence of such substances explains honey’s biological activity and absorbance of ultraviolet radiation. Honey is one of the three most adulterated foods worldwide. High-complexity and sensitivity techniques are used to detect such adulterations, like isotopic analysis and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance. However, a simpler, high-speed, low cost and more accessible analytical method would be more convenient to perform food analyses, particularly for bee products. In this regard, UV-Vis spectroscopy coupled with chemometric analysis has been widely and successfully used to analyze bee products. Therefore, this study aims to validate a methodology based on the use of UV-Vis spectroscopy coupled with chemometric analysis to differentiate the nectar recently collected by bees from partially mature honey and honey. Samples of different geographical and botanical origins were collected from two locations in Argentina; one trial was carried out in Tucumán (in the main lemon flow) and the other in Entre Ríos (eucalyptus flowering). Spectra between 190 nm and 420 nm were recorded and different projection methods were applied, including principal component analysis, FreeViz, and linear discriminant analysis. From the results, it is concluded that UV-Vis spectroscopy coupled with chemometric analysis allows differentiating recently collected nectar from partially mature honey and honey and that phenolic compounds are highly present in mature honey, which could favourably affect its biological activity.

Resumen Introducción. La miel Klanceng (Tetragonula laeviceps) es muy demandada por sus beneficios. No hay información sobre la fecha de caducidad de la miel Klanceng. Objetivo. Predecir la vida útil de la miel Klanceng mediante la evaluación del efecto del calentamiento (40 ºC / 48 h y 70 ºC / 7 h) y el almacenamiento durante dos años. Materiales y métodos. El análisis se llevó a cabo tres veces (2020, 2021 y 2022) en el Laboratorio de la Agencia Nacional de Investigación de Innovación, Yakarta, Indonesia. Se tomaron muestras de miel Klanceng (Tetragonula laeviceps) de una granja de abejas en Magetan, Java Oriental, Indonesia. La muestra (5 kg) se dividió en 3: sin proceso de calentamiento (UT), calentamiento a 40 °C / 48 h (T1) y calentamiento a 70 °C / 7 h (T2). Luego se analizaron HMF, diastasa, invertasa, fosfatasa ácida (AP), glucosa oxidasa (GO), DPPH, absorbancia y actividad fenólica a los 0, 12 y 24 meses. Resultados. Los resultados mostraron que el calentamiento corto a alta temperatura (70 °C / 7 h) tuvo un mayor impacto en la disminución de la actividad enzimática en comparación con el calentamiento prolongado a baja temperatura (40 °C / 48 h). El almacenamiento tuvo un impacto significativo en el aumento de 5-hidroximetil (furano)-2-carbaldehído (HMF) en comparación con el calentamiento. Durante el almacenamiento (24 meses) el valor de HMF superó el límite máximo. Conclusiones. El valor de HMF (55,33 ± 0,57 mg/kg) superó el límite máximo permitido (máximo 40 ppm), esto se debió al efecto significativo del calentamiento en T2 y el proceso de almacenamiento. La vida útil de la miel Klanceng fue de dos años, siempre que no se calentara a altas temperaturas (70 °C).

Abstract Introduction. Klanceng honey (Tetragonula laeviceps) is in great demand because of its benefits. There is no information on the expiration date of the Klanceng honey. Objective. To predict the shelf life of Klanceng honey by evaluating the effect of heating (40 ºC / 48 h and 70 ºC / 7 h) and storage for two years. Materials and methods. The analysis was carried out three times (2020, 2021, and 2022) at the National Innovation Research Agency Laboratory, Jakarta, Indonesia. Samples of Klanceng honey (Tetragonula laeviceps) were taken from a bee farm in Magetan, East Java, Indonesia. The sample (5 kg) was divided into 3: without heating process (UT), heating at 40 ºC / 48 h (T1), and heating at 70 ºC / 7 h (T2). Then analyzed the activity of HMF, diastase, invertase, acid phosphatase (AP), glucose oxidase (GO), DPPH, honey color, and phenolic at 0, 12 and 24-months. Results. The results showed that short heating at high temperature (70 ºC / 7 h) had a greater impact on decreasing enzyme activity compared to prolonged heating at low temperature (40 ºC / 48 h). Storage had a major impact on the increase of 5-hydroxymethyl (furan)-2-carbaldehyde (HMF) compared to the heating process. During storage (24-months) the HMF value exceeded the maximum limit. Conclusions. The HMF value (55.33 ± 0.57 mg/kg) exceeded the maximum allowable limit (max 40 ppm), this was due to the significant effect of heating on T2 and the storage process. The shelf life of Klanceng honey was two years, as long as it was not heated to high temperatures (70 ºC).

Summary Background and aims: To detect floral interactions between species of family Amaryllidaceae and bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Anthophila), the presence of pollen from wild and cultivated Amaryllidaceae in the nests of wild non-Ap/s bees collected in three Argentine eco-regions (Pampa, Pampa-Espinal and Chaco) was investigated. M&M: A total of 500 microscopic slides of pollen and honey from 369 nests of 25 bee species were analyzed. The identification was made by comparing the pollen from nests with the reference pollen obtained from the flowers collected in the studied areas. The flower phenology of the wild species and floral visitation with catching of bee individuals were also recorded. Results: A total of six pollen types belonging to Amaryllidaceae were identified in the pollen diet of only five of the 25 bee species analyzed. Among wild Amaryllidaceae, two different flowering patterns were observed: 1) in the wet periods of winter-spring and/or summer-autumn, and 2) very synchronous and ephemeral, triggered by the rains in summer-autumn. Conclusions: The five bee species presenting Amaryllidaceae pollen in their nests and most bees collected on flowers were polylectic (generalized pollen usage) from Apidae and Halictidae families. More research is needed to deeply study the floral associations between bees and Amaryllidaceae in Argentina, and it is expected that there will be a higher number of bee species with pollen specialization (oligolecty) towards particular clades of this lineage of monocots.

Resumen Introducción y objetivos: A fin de detectar patrones de asociaciones entre Amaryllidaceae y abejas (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Anthophila), se investigó la presencia de polen de Amaryllidaceae silvestres y cultivadas en nidos de abejas silvestres no Ap/s colectados en tres ecorregiones de Argentina (Pampa, Pampa-Espinal y Chaco). M&M: Se analizaron un total de 500 preparados microscópicos de polen y miel de 369 nidos de 25 especies. La identificación fue realizada por comparación con polen de referencia de flores recolectadas en los sitios estudiados. También se registraron la fenología floral de las especies silvestres y visitas florales con captura de individuos de abejas. Resultados: Se identificaron seis tipos polínicos de Amaryllidaceae en la dieta polínica de sólo cinco de 25 especies de abejas. Entre las Amaryllidaceae silvestres se observaron dos patrones de floración marcadamente diferentes: 1) en épocas húmedas invierno-primaverales y/o estivo-otoñales, y 2) sincronizadas y efímeras, desencadenadas por las lluvias estivo-otoñales. Conclusiones: Las cinco especies de abejas con polen de Amaryllidaceae en sus nidos y la gran mayoría de las recolectadas en las flores fueron polilécticas (uso de polen generalizado) de las familias Apidae y Halictidae. Existe mucho por investigar en cuanto a las asociaciones florales entre abejas y Amaryllidaceae en Argentina, y se espera que hayan más especies de abejas con especialización por polen (oligolectia) hacia clados particulares de este linaje de monocotiledóneas.

Abstract The main pollinators of the wild flora are stingless bees and nest products such as collected pollen, propolis and mainly honey; these have been used in the daily diet and even better in traditional medicine. Using keywords such as: antimicrobial, antioxidant, antibacterial and anticancer activity, a literature review was carried out in books and research articles from the scientific search engines PubMed, World Wide Science, Google Scholar and Springer Link to describe general aspects and examples of the benefits in the health of honey. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown a positive relationship between the physicochemical characteristics and the phytochemical composition of honey with the beneficial effect in the treatment of mild conditions such as wound healing, even complex inflammation processes, oxidative stress, or microbial infections. Thus, stingless bee honey represents a potentially therapeutic product.

Resumen Los principales polinizadores de la flora silvestre son las abejas sin aguijón y los productos del nido como el polen recolectado, el propóleo y principalmente la miel; estos han sido empleados en la dieta diaria y aún mejor en la medicina tradicional. Empleando palabras clave como: actividad antimicrobiana, antioxidante, antibacteriana y anticancerígena se realizó una búsqueda bibliográfica en libros y artículos de investigación de los buscadores científicos PubMed, World Wide Science, Google Scholar y Springer Link; para describir aspectos generales y ejemplos de los beneficios en la salud de la miel. Estudios in vitro e in vivo han demostrado una relación positiva entre las características fisicoquímicas y la composición fitoquímica de la miel con el efecto benéfico en el tratamiento de afecciones leves como cicatrización de heridas, hasta procesos complejos de inflamación, estrés oxidativo o infecciones microbianas. Así, la miel de abejas sin aguijón representa un producto con potencial terapéutico.

Abstract Melipona crinita is widely used in meliponiculture for the production of honey, in several places in the Amazon. Thus, the aim of this study was: (i) determine the seasonal characteristics of the pollen collected by M. crinita, regarding the botanical origin; (ii) the growth habit of plants visited by workers and (iii) the contribution of wild and agricultural species in providing pollen for this bee. Our hypotheses were: (i) M. crinita is a generalist species in the use of its pollen sources; (ii) M. crinita adjusts pollen foraging according to flowering variation and (iii) M. crinita visits mainly wild trees and shrubs to collect pollen. The research was carried out from April 2018 to March 2019 in a meliponary located in the rural area of Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil using a colony of M. crinita. The collected samples revealed 46 pollen types, distributed in 25 families and 41 genera of plants. Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) presented a higher frequency of occurrence, FO = 41.67%. The pollen types with the highest frequency of occurrence were: Solanum, FO = 19.72%; Alchornea, FO = 16.13% and Senna, FO = 11.93%, with the least seasonal being: Solanum and Aparisthmium cordatum. From the total plants visited by M. crinita, 71.74% were wild; 28.26% agricultural; 36.96% trees; 34.78% shrubs; 15.22% herbs; 6.52% lianas and 6.52% sub-bushes. Wild trees and shrubs represented 64.80% of all pollen collected by M. crinita. Thus, the conservation of these plants is essential for the successful management of M. crinita in meliponaries.

Resumen Melipona crinita es una abeja ampliamente utilizada en la meliponicultura para la producción de miel en varios lugares de la Amazonía. Así, el objetivo de esta investigación fue: (i) determinar las características estacionales del polen recolectado por M. crinita, en cuanto al origen botánico; (ii) el hábito de crecimiento de las plantas visitadas por las obreras y (iii) la contribución de las especies silvestres y agrícolas en el suministro de polen para esta abeja. Nuestras hipótesis fueron: (i) M. crinita es una especie generalista en el uso de sus fuentes de polen; (ii) M. crinita ajusta la búsqueda de polen de acuerdo con la variación de la floración y (iii) M. crinita visita principalmente árboles y arbustos silvestres para recolectar polen. La investigación se llevo a cabo entre abril de 2018 y marzo de 2019 en un meliponario ubicado en la zona rural de Rio Branco, Acre, Brasil utilizando una colonia de M. crinita. Las muestras recolectadas revelaron 46 tipos de polen, distribuidos en 25 familias y 41 géneros de plantas. Fabaceae (Mimosoideae) presentó la mayor frecuencia de ocurrencia, FO = 41, 67%. Los tipos de polen con mayor frecuencia de ocurrencia fueron: Solanum, FO = 19,72%; Alchornea, FO = 16,13% y Senna, FO = 11,93%, siendo las menos estacionales: Solanum y Aparisthmium cordatum. Del total de plantas visitadas por M. crinita, el 71,74% fueron silvestres; 28,26% agrícolas; 36,96% árboles; 34,78% arbustos; 15,22% hierbas; 6,52% lianas y 6,52% subarbustos. Los árboles y arbustos silvestres representaron el 64,80% de todo el polen recolectado por M. crinita. Por lo tanto, la conservación de estas plantas es fundamental para un manejo exitoso de M. crinita en meliponarios.