Effects of different environmental conditions on the cognitive function of honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) and mineral content of honey

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of local area inhabited by bee colonies on regional efficiency, foraging behavior and the content of certain metal elements in honey. Bee colonies from the same genetic source in different regions demonstrated significant variation (P<0.001) in behavior and performance. Initially, the number of forager worker bees exiting and entering the hive was approximately equal to each other. However, over time a significant difference (P<0.001) occurred between regions. Varying regional conditions caused considerable difference (P<0.001) in the average honey yields of colonies (between 28.60 +/- 3.27 and 0.571 +/- 2.76 kg/colony). Significant differences (P<0.01) in the amount of wax produced were also observed between regions. These regional differences were further reflected in concentrations of certain heavy metals in centrifugal honey samples. Environmental effects were determined to be the most important reason for the differences in all phenotypes, such as behavior, honey yield and heavy metal concentrations in honey. Those colonies inhabiting industrial or polluted areas died before the winter. Therefore, colonies are only productive when provided with appropriate environments or conditions.