Biotic and abiotic stresses on Apis cerana colonies in Tripura, N.E. India

Several biotic and abiotic stresses are associated with Apis cerana colonies in the ecological condition of the state of Tripura. Wax moths, predatory wasps, ants, rock bee, predatory birds, thieves, etc. are the major biotic stresses which interfere with the normal survival of A. cerana population and heavy storms coupled with rainfalls, prolonged dearth periods, pesticide poisoning are the major abiotic stresses which are collectively causing serious losses to the A. cerana colonies in this state. 3-16% colonies are lost annually due to individual biotic stresses. Wax moths’ attack is the predominant stress which is responsible for 12-16% loss of the colonies. 4-8% and 4-7% colonies are lost due to predatory wasps and predatory ants, respectively. 5-8% colonies are lost due to theft problem. Fighting among bees of neighboring hives resulted in loss of 3-5% colonies. Predatory birds viz., Black Drongo, Bee eater birds and Oriental Honey Buzzard are also responsible for reduction in colony strength. 16-21% colonies were found to abscond during dearth period (June to October). Pesticide poisoning is another associated problem due to which losses reached as high as 9-12% annually.