Managing Bee’s Health During Dearth Periods: A Review of Pollen and Nectar Substitutes for Tropical Climates

Bees are essential pollinators, playing a critical role in both ecosystems and agriculture. Aside from their well-known honey production, royal jelly and wax, the significance of pollen and nectar as essential food sources for bees cannot be overstated. In dearth periods such as those occurring between major flowering seasons or environmental factors like drought, bees may encounter difficulties in finding sufficient food for sustaining their colonies. In tropical climates, the dearth period lasts longer compared to other climatic conditions. The implementation and advancement of artificial diet involving substitutes for pollen has been explored as a means to sustain brood rearing, egg laying and foraging activities. This approach aims to ensure an adequate bee population within the colony. Additionally, these substitutes improve energy use and disease resistance by influencing gene expression linked to immunological responses, protein synthesis, and glucose metabolism. Therefore, providing pollen and nectar substitutes to bee colonies during dearth periods can prove advantageous in preserving the overall health and growth of the hives in tropical climatic conditions.