Effects of habitat and beehive type on the yield of honey in Hong local government area of Adamawa state, Nigeria.

Abstract

The study examined the effects of habitat and beehive type on the yield of honey in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State. Habitat potentials that could guarantee possible apicultural industry have not been examined in the study area. Data on list of plant species (trees and shrubs plants) utilized by honeybees were obtained through ocular assessment and total count method. Information on the micro-climatic factors were gathered from the Department of Meteorological Services, Adamawa State University, Mubi. Yield of honey was recorded from different bee hives for 2 years. Data on species of plants visited by honeybees were subjected to descriptive statistics (*occasionally, **frequently and *** very frequently visited), while that on woody plant species diversity was analyzed using Simpson Diversity Index. Multiple regressions were used in the assessment of effect of micro-climatic factors, woody plant species diversity on the yield of honey. A total of 19 trees belonging to 12 families and 13 shrubs belonging to 7 families were visited either occasionally, frequently and very frequently by honeybees in the study area. Results of woody and herbaceous plant species diversity indicated 0.807638712 and 0.903150826 respectively. Woody plant species diversity (11.297**) and temperature (0.527*) contributed more than other factors {P<0.05}. R.Square (65.9%) indicated high coefficient of determination between the determinant factors. Total honey yield of 94.30kg and 60.40kg were obtained for first and second years respectively. Langstroth and clay pot hives had the highest (38.39kg) and lowest (8.50kg) yields in the first year; while Israeli top-bar (25.30kg) and clay pot (4.50kg) were noted in the second year. Further research on plants visited by honeybees and their nectar status has been recommended.

Keywords: Habitat, effects, beehives, honey yield