Forrageamento de pólen por abelhas sem ferrão nidificadas no campus Poeta Torquato Neto, Teresina-PI

Abstract

This study analyzed the foraging behavior of stingless bees nesting in the Campus Poeta Torquato Neto, Teresina-PI, aiming to identify the floral resources used and the patterns of food collection. The research, conducted from october to december 2024, investigated three nests located in tree cavities, from which pollen samples were collected and analyzed to identify the plant species visited. The results indicated a predominance of pollen from the Myrtaceae family, followed by Bignoniaceae, Turneraceae, and Anacardiaceae, highlighting the diversity of resources exploited by the bees. Increased foraging activity was observed in the morning, possibly due to more favorable climatic conditions. These findings emphasize the role of urban areas as essential resource sources for stingless bees and reinforce the importance of conserving local vegetation to maintain colonies. This study expands knowledge about the ecological niche of these bees and provides insights for management and conservation strategies of pollinators in urban environments.