Scientific note: behavioral dynamics of pollen storage in Melipona quadrifasciata

Abstract

Stingless bees are important eusocial insects found in tropical and subtropical regions. They store nectar and pollen from flowers to survive periods of scarcity. Throughout the storage period, nectar and pollen experience fermentation processes, ultimately leading to the formation of honey and fermented pollen. However, the fermentation process of pollen collected by stingless bees is poorly understood. Understanding these processes clarifies pollen fermentation in different stingless bee species and sheds light on pollen's transformation process. This knowledge can be applied to produce fermented feeds using specific microorganisms. Therefore, this study aimed to observe pollen storage behavior within stingless bee colonies to try to understand the fermentation process and aid in developing fermented feeds for bees. Three Melipona quadrifasciata colonies from the Experimental Meliponary of the Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Brazil, were observed for 30 days in different seasons (summer and winter). Daily observations were conducted in the morning and night, and pollen pots were marked with random colors to differentiate them and collect data on worker bee dynamics. Observations showed no consistent patterns in the opening and closing of the pots, with worker bees frequently entering and exiting the open pollen pots. This suggests an ongoing fermentation process involving gas exchange and nutrient flow. The lack of regularity in handling pollen storage in M. quadrifasciata indicates its noteworthy variability. These findings are crucial for advancing meliponiculture techniques and developing fermented protein supplements globally and locally.