Nurturing Bee Resilience: Strategies Against Winter Mortality and Collaborative Ecosystem Preservation
Efforts are underway to combat the mass mortality of overwintering bees, a consequence primarily linked to varroa mites. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, in collaboration with local governments and beekeeping associations, is actively supporting technologies to minimize bee damage both before and after wintering. Despite challenges, the recent increase in honey production indicates positive outcomes attributed to proactive bee breeding and control initiatives.
To safeguard bees during the winter, constant monitoring is crucial. Beekeepers are urged to stay vigilant as sudden temperature changes can induce stress among bees. If damage is anticipated, early breeding decisions post-wintering can help minimize harm to the bee colonies.
The collaborative efforts have yielded promising results, with this year's honey production experiencing a slight increase compared to the previous year. Beekeeping associations and research institutions have played a pivotal role in setting periods for intensive honey bee infestation control, contributing to a recovery in bee populations.
However, challenges persist as weather conditions become unpredictable, especially in November. Beekeepers face the task of ensuring the well-being of overwintering bees during large temperature swings, which can lead to stress and colony disruption.
Various protective measures are recommended, including shading hives to minimize light exposure, relocating to less affected areas, and utilizing smart devices like heating plates. A recent study suggests that bees overwinter more stably when the heating plate maintains a temperature of 12℃, reducing temperature differentials within the hive.
The article emphasizes that stable honey production and bee population growth depend on the meticulous management of beekeepers. Han Sang-mi, head of the Beekeeping Ecology Division at the Agricultural Research Service, highlights the significance of controlling bee affection, a crucial factor in bee mortality.
In a collaborative event, Nongshim, along with the Korea Agricultural Research Service, Buan County, Korea Beekeeping Cooperative, and Nongshim Corporation, planted wheat source trees to support the national beekeeping industry, preserve ecosystems, and create an optimal model for honey production. This inter-agency collaboration aims to address environmental challenges faced by beekeepers and foster sustainable beekeeping practices.
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