Apis mellifera
Explanation
Apiculture is the scientific rearing of honeybees for the commercial production of honey and wax. In India, beekeeping involves both indigenous species and introduced exotic species to maximize yield.
- Apis mellifera: This is the Italian bee (or European bee). It was introduced in India specifically to enhance honey production. It is highly preferred for commercial apiculture because it has a high honey collection capacity, stings less, stays in the beehive for longer periods, and breeds efficiently.
- Apis cerana indica: This is the Indian hive bee, a subspecies of the Asiatic honey bee. It is indigenous to India and commonly found in the wild and in traditional hives.
- Apis dorsata: Known as the Rock bee, this is a giant wild bee. It is aggressive, migratory, and difficult to domesticate, though it produces significant honey in the wild.
- Apis florea: Known as the Little bee, this is a small wild species that builds single vertical combs. It yields very small quantities of honey.
Key Takeaway: Apis mellifera is the exotic Italian bee species introduced in India for high-yield commercial honey production, distinguished by its docile nature and superior honey-gathering efficiency compared to indigenous species.