Honey bees are not a single, uniform insect. Within the species Apis mellifera, often called the Western honey bee, there exists a remarkable diversity. These genetic variations result in distinct populations, or “strains,” each possessing unique characteristics that influence their behavior, productivity, and adaptability.
What Are Honey Bee Strains?
A honey bee strain refers to a genetically distinct population within the Apis mellifera species, analogous to breeds within domesticated animals. These strains originate and evolve through two primary mechanisms. Natural selection plays a significant role, as bee populations adapt over generations to the specific environmental conditions of their native regions, developing traits that enhance their survival in those particular climates and ecosystems.
Beekeepers also contribute to strain development through selective breeding. This practice involves intentionally mating bees with desirable traits, such as gentleness, high honey production, or disease resistance. The genetic makeup of these strains dictates various attributes, from physical appearance to behaviors like foraging patterns and defensive responses.
Common Honey Bee Strains and Their Traits
Several prominent honey bee strains are recognized globally, each with a distinct set of traits.
Italian Bees
Italian bees (Apis mellifera ligustica) are popular, known for their gentle temperament and prolific honey production. They exhibit a light, yellowish color and tend to initiate brood rearing early in spring and continue late into the fall. However, this extended brood-rearing can be a disadvantage in colder climates, as it requires more honey reserves for overwintering, and they may struggle to form a tight winter cluster. Italian bees are also susceptible to parasitic mites, such as tracheal and Varroa mites, and have a tendency to drift between colonies and rob weaker hives.
Carniolan Bees
Carniolan bees (Apis mellifera carnica) are another favored strain, distinguished by their dark bodies with brown spots or bands. Originating from Central Europe, they are notably gentle and adapt well to fluctuating weather conditions, foraging efficiently even on cooler, wet days. Carniolans are known for their rapid population buildup in the spring, and they conserve honey stores effectively during dearth periods. While they are good at defending against pests and are less prone to robbing, their explosive spring growth can lead to a higher swarming tendency.
Russian Bees
Russian bees, originating from Russia, are darker in color. They are highly valued for their natural resistance to Varroa and tracheal mites, a trait developed from coexisting with these mites in their native environment for decades. Russian bees exhibit a brood-rearing cycle that adjusts based on nectar and pollen availability, making them well-suited for colder climates. They also demonstrate a lower tendency to rob other hives compared to Italian bees and are known for their ability to overwinter with smaller clusters.
Buckfast Bees
Buckfast bees are a hybrid strain developed in England by Brother Adam, known for their resilience. This strain was selectively bred for resistance to tracheal mites and suitability for cool, wet climates. Buckfast bees are gentle, exhibit low swarming tendencies, and are efficient honey producers. They are also economical in their use of winter stores and build up hive strength quickly in the spring. If left to naturally requeen, subsequent generations may become more aggressive, often requiring beekeepers to purchase new queens to maintain desired temperament.
Factors Influencing Strain Selection
Beekeepers consider several factors when selecting a honey bee strain for their apiaries. Local climate and environmental conditions are important considerations, as different strains possess varying tolerances to temperature extremes and humidity. For example, strains adapted to colder regions may overwinter more successfully, while those from warmer areas might struggle in harsh winters. The availability of nectar and pollen sources throughout the year also influences a strain’s performance, as some strains are better at rapidly building populations to exploit early blooms.
Desired honey production levels play a role in selection, with some strains consistently yielding higher amounts of honey. Beekeeper experience levels also factor into the decision; more docile strains, such as Italian or Carniolan bees, are often preferred by beginners due to their calmer temperament. The prevalence of specific diseases and pests in a region, particularly mites, can guide choices towards more resistant strains. Finally, management goals, such as minimizing swarming or reducing treatments, influence the selection process.