A melissopalynological database of honey characterisations : a Mediterranean study

Abstract

This study presents the development of a melissopalynological database of honey characterisations focused on the Mediterranean region. The research consolidates and synthesises data from 53 studies, providing a detailed characterisation of the floral origins of honey within this ecologically diverse area. The database includes information on the frequency and distribution of pollen from various plant families, with a focus on predominant and secondary pollen types found in honey samples across multiple Mediterranean countries.

The study's findings highlight significant regional variation in the plant families foraged, with Fabaceae emerging as the most frequently encountered and most abundant family from the selected articles. Other commonly represented families include Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, and Brassicaceae, which are preferred by bees due to their nutritional value and abundance in the region. The analysis also makes apparent the importance of region-specific conservation strategies to support honeybee populations and the ecosystems they pollinate.

The database serves as a valuable tool for future research, offering insights into the foraging preferences of honeybees, the impacts of environmental changes on floral availability, and the potential applications of melissopalynology in honey authentication and agricultural planning. However, the study acknowledges limitations, including uneven regional representation and variability in the types of honey analysed. Future research is recommended to expand the geographic scope and explore the temporal dynamics of pollen diversity in honey, contributing to a deeper understanding of honeybee ecology and conservation.