LOQUAT AS A SOURCE OF NECTAR AND POLLEN IN THE WINTER FOR BEEKEEPING

Abstract

Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are important pollinators of fruit species, and are considered an indispensable element of agriculture. Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) which blossom in winter and whose bloom period lasts at least 2 months, was evaluated as an important source of pollen nectar in beekeeping. Pollen length is between 1.290-1.799 mm (average 1.517mm) and pollen width is between 0.925-1.267 mm (average 1.116). Loquat flowers contain a large amount of nectar and has a prominent fragrance. Since there are no other flowers in the environment in winter months, bees should benefit from loquat nectar and pollens in this period.