Characterisation of honey from Apis mellifera ligustica : a case study from central Malta

Abstract

This study investigates the botanical characterisation of honey produced by Apis mellifera ligustica colonies in central Malta, focusing on the predominant floral sources and comparing pollen content between honey samples and pollen pellets collected within the same season. Melissopalynology techniques were employed to analyse ten honey samples, with results indicating a high level of Fabaceae taxa, along with some Brassicaceae and Euphorbiaceae taxa. Variations in bee preferences are seen when comparing findings between pollen pellet loads from a previous study and this study's honey samples; these variations may be impacted by plant availability and abundance along with nutritional composition. Certain plants, such as Convolvulus, showed differences between the pollen pellets and nectar (honey), whereas other plants, like Malva sylvestris, were noticeably absent from both. The study provides insights for beekeepers with respect to local ecosystems by highlighting bee foraging patterns. The results enhance our comprehension of the complex relationship that bees have with local floral resources, which is essential for maintaining bee populations and maximising honey production in the area.