A mediterranean silvo-pastoral system supporting beehive health and productivity

The biological, productive and sanitary conditions were investigated in an experimental apiary in order to evaluate the aptitude of the Mediterranean silvo-pastoral systems to the maintenance and exploitation of bee colonies through the best hive management practices. Observations on bee colony dynamics, honey production in storing supers, Paenibacillus larvae (White 1906) spores detection and Varroa destructor Anderson et Trueman infestation were conducted. The annual trend of bee population dynamics showed two typical peaks (spring and autumn). The total average honey production was 70 kg per hive. From a sanitary point of view, colonies looked normal and healthy with the sole exception of V. destructor infestations that were regularly kept under the intervention threshold by hive management operations. The results suggest that the Mediterranean agro-silvo-pastoral systems may be particularly suitable for productive and healthy apiculture.