Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Western Honey Bees
Why in the News?
- Western Honey Bees widely used for boosting pollination has led to unintended ecological consequences.
- Now they inadvertently carry and transmit Thai Sacbrood Virus to native bee colonies.
About Western Honey Bees
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About Indian Bees and Their Habitat
- Indian bees are predominantly Apis cerana indica, a species of Asian honey bee.
- They are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, agricultural land, and urban environments.
- They thrive in areas with abundant flowers and nectar sources.
- Indian bees are important for pollination, especially for local flora, and contribute to the ecosystem by supporting biodiversity and food production.
- They face threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and competition from Western Honey Bees, which may outcompete them for food and nesting sites.
Significance of Honey Bee:
- Pollination and Food Security: Honey bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops, contributing to the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts, ensuring global food security and agricultural sustainability.
- Biodiversity Conservation: By facilitating plant reproduction, honey bees support ecosystem health and biodiversity, maintaining the balance of natural habitats and enhancing the resilience of ecosystems.
PYQ:[2023] Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food? (a) Butterflies (b) Dragonflies (c) Honeybees (d) Wasps |
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