Effect of rearing season on queen and the reproduction of Apis mellifera carnica and A mellifera ligustica

Hybrids of Apis mellifera carnica and Apis mellifera ligustica queen bees were reared to investigate their physiological and reproductive characters as well as spermatheca semen volume to determine the suitable time for queen rearing under Giza conditions in Egypt. Rearing seasons were found to affect the queens’ quality determined based on their weight/ volume of the spermatheca, and quantity and quality of stored sperms in the spermatheca. Results indicated that the Carniolian hybrid gynes were heavier than Italian hybrid ones, with greatest mating success being observed in March and April, while it was worst during June. Spermatheca was less voluminuos with less spermatozoa in Italian hybrid queen bees compared to the Carniolian hybrid ones. Thus, under Giza region conditions, it is highly recommended to rear queens during the spring months.