The combined effect of proteinaceous feeding and seasonal changes on the activity and productivity of honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) colonies

Abstract

Nectar and pollen resources are not sustainable year-round in most parts of the world, and the lack of either results in reduced colony productivity. To address this challenge, we investigated the effects of a high-protein pollen substitute diet on honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) colony performance over a one-year period. Ten colonies were fed a diet (50 g/colony, twice weekly) comprising 15 g defatted soybean flour + 15 g brewer's yeast + 5 g sugar powder + 5 g skimmed milk + 10 g cotton honey. Another ten colonies served as a control group without protein supplementation. Colony performance metrics including foraging activity, stored pollen area, worker and drone brood production, and overall colony strength were monitored and compared. Additionally, monthly surveys identified the dominant nectar and pollen sources in the Kafrelsheikh district. Faba bean, Egyptian clover, sunflower, eucalyptus, and sesame were the dominant sources of nectar and pollen. Maize was the main pollen source, and cotton was a major nectar source in the Kafrelsheikh district. Compared with the unfed colonies, the fed colonies showed significant superiority in colony activity and productivity. The highest values of the number of forager bees, pollen forager, stored pollen area, worker sealed brood area, and colony population size were recorded during May, followed by August, then March, while the lowest values were recorded during December. The highest values of drone sealed brood area were recorded during March, followed by May, then August, while no drone broods were reared from October to January. Honey yield from fed colonies increased by 36.62% and 35.10% more than honey from unfed colonies for Egyptian clover and cotton honey, respectively. Supplementing honey bee colonies with a high-protein diet during periods of natural pollen scarcity significantly enhances colony performance, strength, and honey production. We recommend protein supplementation during scarcity periods and between major nectar flows to sustain colony health and maximize productivity.