Horizontal and vertical colonies for royal jelly production in Brazil

The potential of royal jelly production in Africanized honeybee colonies was evaluated using techniques involving two queens per colony in horizontal and vertical systems during the spring of 2019. The techniques were tested for their effect on cell acceptance (%); royal jelly production per colony (g), per harvest (g), and per position of cell bar (g) and compared with standard techniques (five and ten-frame hives) in southern Brazil. Results showed statistical significance in royal jelly production between methods. Vertical colonies produced a significantly greater amount of royal jelly per colony and per harvest (8.26 and 53.28±4.98 g) compared with single-queen colonies in ten-frame hives (4.30 and 32.76±3.57 g) and five-frame hives overlapping (2.03 and 14.45±2.48 g), but did not differ from two-queen horizontal colonies (8.09 and 46.81±4.90 g). In contrast, there was no significant difference in queen cell acceptance rate within vertical, horizontal, and ten-frame colonies. Royal jelly yield of two-queen vertical colonies increase as compared with standard colonies.(AU)

Drone production, semen viability and spermatozoa longevity of Africanized Apis mellifera

Characteristics correlated with beekeeping production, less influenced by the environment and that can be controlled by management techniques, can help in the selection of colonies with higher production capacity, aiming to improve breeding programs. This research was carried out to evaluate the production of Africanized Apis mellifera drones and the longevity of spermatozoa from different genetic groups when supplemented with protein or not. Two genetic groups were used: one selected for royal jelly production from the Africanized honeybee breeding program and another without genetic selection. In both groups, the number of drone brood and the quality of semen were evaluated every 30 days, for five months. Statistical analysis was performed using Bayesian Inference. Statistical difference was found for the drone production among the treatments, and colonies without genetic selection produced more males (187.80 ± 11.15) than the selected colonies (93.07 ± 8.88). The selected colonies for royal jelly production presented greater efficiency in the reproductive cycle of males, because they produced fewer drones than colonies without genetic selection, however, with 31% greater semen viability.(AU)

Drone production, semen viability and spermatozoa longevity of Africanized Apis mellifera

Characteristics correlated with beekeeping production, less influenced by the environment and that can be controlled by management techniques, can help in the selection of colonies with higher production capacity, aiming to improve breeding programs. This research was carried out to evaluate the production of Africanized Apis mellifera drones and the longevity of spermatozoa from different genetic groups when supplemented with protein or not. Two genetic groups were used: one selected for royal jelly production from the Africanized honeybee breeding program and another without genetic selection. In both groups, the number of drone brood and the quality of semen were evaluated every 30 days, for five months. Statistical analysis was performed using Bayesian Inference. Statistical difference was found for the drone production among the treatments, and colonies without genetic selection produced more males (187.80 ± 11.15) than the selected colonies (93.07 ± 8.88). The selected colonies for royal jelly production presented greater efficiency in the reproductive cycle of males, because they produced fewer drones than colonies without genetic selection, however, with 31% greater semen viability.

Royal jelly production with queens produced by single and double grafting in Africanized honeybee colonies

The objective of this research was to evaluate royal jelly production from Africanized honeybee queens of different lineages (lineage selected for honey production, lineage selected for royal jelly production and unselected) produced by single and double grafting and to compare royal jelly production among their offspring. Data were tested by double factorial analysis of variance and the means were compared by Tukey test at 5%. The parameters evaluated were: queen weight at emergence, percentage of larvae acceptance in the upper and lower bars, royal jelly per cup (mg) and royal jelly per colony/collection (g). Queens selected for honey presented greater weight at emergence, while the unselected queens were the lightest. Double grafting was better than simple grafting, since the queens were born 2.38% heavier. There was no difference (p > 0.05) in relation to royal jelly production according to neither the lineage nor even comparing the method by which the queens were produced. The cost of labor to produce queens by double grafting was much higher, as by the simple grafting about 170% more queens were born. The potential of Africanized honeybees with adequate production management and favorable environmental conditions favors the production of royal jelly.(AU)

Royal jelly production with queens produced by single and double grafting in Africanized honeybee colonies

The objective of this research was to evaluate royal jelly production from Africanized honeybee queens of different lineages (lineage selected for honey production, lineage selected for royal jelly production and unselected) produced by single and double grafting and to compare royal jelly production among their offspring. Data were tested by double factorial analysis of variance and the means were compared by Tukey test at 5%. The parameters evaluated were: queen weight at emergence, percentage of larvae acceptance in the upper and lower bars, royal jelly per cup (mg) and royal jelly per colony/collection (g). Queens selected for honey presented greater weight at emergence, while the unselected queens were the lightest. Double grafting was better than simple grafting, since the queens were born 2.38% heavier. There was no difference (p > 0.05) in relation to royal jelly production according to neither the lineage nor even comparing the method by which the queens were produced. The cost of labor to produce queens by double grafting was much higher, as by the simple grafting about 170% more queens were born. The potential of Africanized honeybees with adequate production management and favorable environmental conditions favors the production of royal jelly.

Royal jelly production in Africanized colonies with selected queens, use of Chinese model cups and supplementation

This research was carried out to evaluate the royal jelly production in two trials. In Trial I, three genotypes of Africanized honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) were submitted to royal jelly production with two types of cups of different size and volume (conventional and Chinese model) and two types of supplements (commercial and formulated). A total of 24 colonies were used, two bars with different cups each, alternating between the upper or lower position of the frame. While in Trial II, 18 colonies, two genotypes, two types of cups and two types of supplement were tested. The evaluated parameters were: percentage of larvae accepted in upper and lower bars, royal jelly per cup (mg), and royal jelly per colony/collection (g). Chinese cups were not well accepted, fact that influenced in a negative way the production of general form, selected colonies were more sensible to the change of cups. Colonies of Africanized honeybees are not prepared to produce in cups of greater volume.(AU)

Royal jelly production in Africanized colonies with selected queens, use of Chinese model cups and supplementation

This research was carried out to evaluate the royal jelly production in two trials. In Trial I, three genotypes of Africanized honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) were submitted to royal jelly production with two types of cups of different size and volume (conventional and Chinese model) and two types of supplements (commercial and formulated). A total of 24 colonies were used, two bars with different cups each, alternating between the upper or lower position of the frame. While in Trial II, 18 colonies, two genotypes, two types of cups and two types of supplement were tested. The evaluated parameters were: percentage of larvae accepted in upper and lower bars, royal jelly per cup (mg), and royal jelly per colony/collection (g). Chinese cups were not well accepted, fact that influenced in a negative way the production of general form, selected colonies were more sensible to the change of cups. Colonies of Africanized honeybees are not prepared to produce in cups of greater volume.

Oocyte maturation with royal jelly increases embryo development and reduces apoptosis in goats

Royal jelly (RJ) was supplemented to goat oocytein vitro maturation (IVM) medium at three different concentrations (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/ml). Maturation rate, embryo cleavage, and blastocyst rate were recorded. Gene expression of apoptosis-related transcripts was investigated in matured oocytes. Percentage of oocytes that reached MII-stage was increased in RJ-treated groups compared to the control group. Glutathione (GSH) content of mature oocytes was enhanced when RJ was added to IVM medium at any supplementation compared with control. Percentage of cleaved embryos and blastocysts was higher in the RJ-treated groups at a concentration of 5 mg/ml than in the 2.5 mg/ml and control group. Total number of cells per blastocyst was not different in the control and RJ-treated group at 5 mg/ml. However, number of apoptotic cells per blastocyst was higher in the control group than in the RJ-treated group at 5 mg/ml. Expression profile of Bax, and p53was down-regulated while Bcl-2 was up-regulated in oocytes treated with RJ at 5 and 10 mg/ml compared with the control group. Addition of RJ at concentrations of 5 mg/ml improved embryo production through increasing maturation rate. RJ seems to improvethe IVM microenvironment by reducing expression of genes inducing apoptosis, enhancing GSH content, and reducing incidence of apoptosis in blastocysts.

Oocyte maturation with royal jelly increases embryo development and reduces apoptosis in goats

Royal jelly (RJ) was supplemented to goat oocytein vitro maturation (IVM) medium at three different concentrations (2.5, 5, and 10 mg/ml). Maturation rate, embryo cleavage, and blastocyst rate were recorded. Gene expression of apoptosis-related transcripts was investigated in matured oocytes. Percentage of oocytes that reached MII-stage was increased in RJ-treated groups compared to the control group. Glutathione (GSH) content of mature oocytes was enhanced when RJ was added to IVM medium at any supplementation compared with control. Percentage of cleaved embryos and blastocysts was higher in the RJ-treated groups at a concentration of 5 mg/ml than in the 2.5 mg/ml and control group. Total number of cells per blastocyst was not different in the control and RJ-treated group at 5 mg/ml. However, number of apoptotic cells per blastocyst was higher in the control group than in the RJ-treated group at 5 mg/ml. Expression profile of Bax, and p53was down-regulated while Bcl-2 was up-regulated in oocytes treated with RJ at 5 and 10 mg/ml compared with the control group. Addition of RJ at concentrations of 5 mg/ml improved embryo production through increasing maturation rate. RJ seems to improvethe IVM microenvironment by reducing expression of genes inducing apoptosis, enhancing GSH content, and reducing incidence of apoptosis in blastocysts.(AU)

SUPLEMENTAÇÃO DE FONTE INORGÂNICA DE ZINCO NO PERFIL PROTEÔMICO E METALÔMICO DA GELEIA REAL EM ABELHAS Apis mellifera L.

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a qualidade nutricional do perfil proteico da geleia real produzida pelas abelhas Apis mellifera suplementadas com diferentes concentrações de zinco inorgânico (Sulfato de Zinco monoidratado - 0, 25, 50 e 75 ppm). Foi feita eletroforese bidimensional para o fracionamento das proteínas da geleia real e o nível de zinco quantificado pela técnica de espectrometria de absorção atômica com chama (FAAS). A análise de proteínas da geléia real como componente extracelular foi realizada pela plataforma Blast2Go, onde foram obtidos gráficos de funções moleculares e processos biológicos das proteínas encontradas através da análise proteômica por análise de espectrometria de massa ESI MS / MS, mostrando as proteínas Major Royal Jelly Protein 1 e Major Royal Jelly Protein 8 como as principais proteínas ativas na geléia real tanto para up como para down regulation e associada ao zinco. Todos os tratamentos independentes das concentrações de zinco mostraram número menor de Spots proteicos quando comparadas com o controle. Todas as proteínas contendo zinco foram classificadas como Proteínas Principais da Geleia Real (MRJPs). A exposição de abelhas nutrizes ao mineral zinco em sua forma inorgânica promoveu aumento na expressão de proteínas da geleia real envolvidas em sistemas de defesa (MRJP8 e MRJP9), entretanto reduziu a expressão de seis diferentes proteínas das MRJPs (sendo elas: MRJP, MRJP1, MRJP2, MRJP3, MRJP5 e MRJP7). Nossos resultados demonstram que proteínas vitais e processos metabólicos são prejudicados em abelhas nutrizes expostas ao mineral zinco em sua forma inorgânica em todas as doses utilizadas afetando a nutrição e manutenção de colônias.

This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional quality of the protein profile of royal jelly by honey bees Apis mellifera supplemented with different concentrations of inorganic zinc (Zinc Sulphate monohydrate - 0, 25, 50 and 75 ppm). Was performed two-dimensional electrophoresis for the fractionation of royal jelly proteins and the zinc level was quantified by the flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) technique. Protein analysis of royal jelly as an extracellular component was performed using the Blast2Go platform, where graphs of molecular functions and biological processes of the proteins found through proteomic analysis by mass spectrometry analysis ESI MS / MS, showing as Major Royal proteins Jelly Protein 1 and Major Royal Jelly Protein 8as the main active proteins in royal jelly for both up and down regulation and associated with zinc. All treatments independent of zinc concentrations reduced the number of protein spots when compared to the control. All zinc-containing proteins were classified as Major Royal Jelly Proteins (MRJPs). The exposure of nursing bees to the mineral zinc in its inorganic form promoted an increase in the expression of royal jelly proteins involved in defense systems (MRJP8 and MRJP9), however it reduced an expression of six different MRJPs proteins (namely: MRJP, MRJP1, MRJP2, MRJP3, MRJP5 and MRJP7). The results demonstrate that vital proteins and metabolic processes are impaired in nursing bees exposed to the mineral zinc in its inorganic form in all doses used affecting nutrition and maintenance of colonies.

Produção e composição físico-química de geleia real em colônias de abelhas africanizadas, suplementadas com ou sem probióticos

Objetivou-se avaliar a produção de geleia real em colônias selecionadas de abelhas africanizadas, com diferentes cúpulas, e alimentadas com suplementos proteicos com ou sem probióticos. Foram utilizadas colônias selecionadas para produção de geleia real, pelo método adaptado de Doolittle, sendo as transferências de larvas em cúpulas convencionais e de origem chinesa. Os tratamentos experimentais foram: colônias não suplementadas, suplementadas com fontes proteicas e suplementadas com fontes proteicas com probióticos. Foram avaliados os efeitos dos suplementos na aceitação (%) de larvas e produção de geleia real por colônia (g), produção de geleia real por cúpula aceita (mg) e por posição de sarrafo por colônia (g), bem como os efeitos dos ciclos na aceitação (%) de larvas e produção de geleia real (g). Também foram avaliados os efeitos das suplementações, da posição dos sarrafos e dos ciclos na produção de larvas (g), bem como os efeitos do peso das larvas nos pontos de produção de geleia real por cúpula aceita (mg). A produção de geleia real foi de 0,609 g em 50% das produções e 1,21 g para 25% das observações. A aceitação de larvas foi de 18.75% em 50% e 41,18% para 25% das observações. A produção de larvas mediana foi de 0,235 g em 50% das produções e 0,560 g para 25% das observações. Colônias que receberam suplementação tiveram produção de geleia real, aceitação e produção de larvas estimadas maiores (p<0,05), em relação às não suplementadas. As cúpulas verdes (origem chinesa) obtiveram superioridade em relação à convencional apenas na variável produção por cúpula aceita (g). Os sarrafos 1 e 2 propiciaram maiores produções de geleia real e de larvas e maiores aceitações (p<0,05). As suplementações proteicas são uma alternativa para melhoria do desempenho de colônias de abelhas africanizadas submetidas à produção de geleia real, com sarrafos localizados mais próximo do ninho no inverno. Trabalhos avaliando apenas as cúpulas chinesas são necessários, pois quando aceitas pelas colônias, são mais produtivas.

The objective was to evaluate the production of royal jelly in selected colonies of Africanized honeybees, with different cups, and fed with protein supplements with or without probiotics. Colonies selected to produce royal jelly were used, using the Doolittle method, with the transfer of larvae in conventional cups and of Chinese origin. The experimental treatments were colonies not supplemented, supplemented with protein sources and supplemented with protein sources with probiotics. The effects of supplements on larvae acceptance (%) and royal jelly production by colony (g), royal jelly production by accepted dome (mg) and by batten position by colony (g) were evaluated, as well as the effects of cycles in the larvae acceptance (%) and royal jelly production (g). The effects of supplementation, the position of battens and cycles on larvae production (g) were also evaluated, as well as the effects of larvae weight on points of royal jelly production per accepted cup (mg). The royal jelly production was 0.609 g in 50% of the productions and 1.21 g for 25% of the observations. The larvae acceptance was 18.75% in 50% and 41.18% for 25% of the observations. The median larvae production was 0.235 g in 50% of the productions and 0.560 g for 25% of the observations. Colonies that received supplementation had royal jelly production, acceptance and larvae production higher (p <0.05) than those not supplemented. The green cups (Chinese origin) obtained superiority in relation to the conventional one only in the production variable per accepted cup (g). Battens 1 and 2 provided higher royal jelly and larvae production and greater acceptance (p <0.05). Protein supplements are an alternative to improve the performance of Africanized honeybee colonies submitted to royal jelly production, with batten located closer to the nest in winter. Works evaluating only the Chinese cups are necessary, because when accepted by the colonies, they are more productive.

EFEITO DA SUPLEMENTAÇÃO DE ZINCO NO PERFIL PROTEÔMICO E METALÔMICO DA GELEIA REAL E NO TRANSCRIPTOMA DE ABELHAS Apis mellifera L.

As abelhas A. mellifera possuem necessidades específicas de nutrientes para que possam desenvolver todo o seu potencial produtivo e reprodutivo, visando a sobrevivência e manutenção da colônia. Neste projeto avaliamos duas fontes de zinco (orgânico e inorgânico), em diferentes concentrações e seus reflexos no perfil metaloproteômico da geleia real e no transcriptoma de abelhas com 6 dias de idade. Foram utilizadas 35 colônias de abelhas A. mellifera, distribuídas aleatoriamente nos seguintes tratamentos (05 colmeias por tratamento): controle: xarope de açúcar sem suplementação de zinco; ZNI25: xarope de açúcar suplementado com 25 ppm de Zn inorgânico; ZNI50: xarope de açúcar suplementado com 50 ppm de Zn inorgânico; ZNI75: xarope de açúcar suplementado com 75 ppm de Zn inorgânico; ZNO25: xarope de açúcar suplementado com 25 ppm de Zn orgânico; ZNO50: xarope de açúcar suplementado com 50 ppm de Zn orgânico; ZNO75: xarope de açúcar suplementado com 75 ppm de Zn orgânico. A fonte de zinco inorgânico foi o sulfato de zinco monohidratado (37,4% de zinco) e a fonte orgânica de zinco metionina (16% de zinco), diluída em xarope de açúcar. Os níveis reais de zinco foram determinados por espectrometria de absorção atômica (FAAS). As abelhas A. mellifera recém-emergidas foram marcadas ao final de 30 dias de suplementação com caneta atóxica, na região pronoto e suas coletas para análise do transcriptoma foram realizadas aos 6 dias de idade em sua fase de nutriz, com exatamente 36 dias de experimento. Para a análise do metaloproteoma da geleia real, foi induzido a produção de geleia real pelo método de transferência de larvas. Assim que coletada, o teor proteico das amostras era mensurado por espectrômetro de UV visível, as proteínas eram separadas pela eletroforese bidimensional (2D page) e as metaloproteínas separadas por espectrômetro de absorção atômica. Todas as funções biológicas associadas as metaloproteínas que continham zinco foram identificados por espectrômetro de absorção atômica. Nossos resultados sugerem que as menores concentrações de zinco orgânico (ZNO 25) alteram o maior número de expressão diferencial de proteínas da geleia real e também aumentam a concentração proteica das amostras. Em relação as análises do transcriptoma, nossos resultados sugerem que os maiores níveis de zinco inorgânico (ZNI 75) alteram a maior via de genes relacionados a importantes processos fisiológicos, entretanto, somente as menores concentrações de zinco de fonte orgânica (ZNO25) apresentaram grande aumento de genes diferencialmente expressos quando relacionados ao grupo controle (ZN0).

A. mellifera bees have specific nutrient needs so that they can develop their full productive and reproductive potential, aiming at colony survival and maintenance. In this project, we evaluated two sources of zinc (organic and inorganic), at different concentrations and their effects on the metalloproteomic profile of royal jelly and the transcriptome of 6-day-old bees. Thirty-five colonies of A. mellifera bees were used, randomly distributed in the following treatments (05 hives per treatment): control: sugar syrup without zinc supplementation; ZNI25: sugar syrup supplemented with 25 ppm inorganic Zn; ZNI50: sugar syrup supplemented with 50 ppm inorganic Zn; ZNI75: sugar syrup supplemented with 75 ppm inorganic Zn; ZNO25: sugar syrup supplemented with 25 ppm organic Zn; ZNO50: sugar syrup supplemented with 50 ppm organic Zn; ZNO75: Sugar syrup supplemented with 75 ppm organic Zn. The inorganic zinc source was zinc sulfate monohydrate (37.4% zinc) and the organic zinc source methionine (16% zinc), diluted in sugar syrup. Actual zinc levels were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The newly emerged A. mellifera bees were tagged at the end of 30 days of supplementation with a non-toxic pen, in the pronotum region, and their collections for transcriptome analysis were carried out at 6 days of age in their nursing phase, with exactly 36 days of the experiment. . For the analysis of the royal jelly metalloproteome, royal jelly production was induced by the larval transfer method. Once collected, the protein content of the samples was measured by a visible UV spectrometer, the proteins were separated by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2D page) and the metalloproteins were separated by an atomic absorption spectrometer. All biological functions associated with zinc-containing metalloproteins were identified by an atomic absorption spectrometer. Our results suggest that the lower concentrations of organic zinc (ZNO 25) alter the greater number of differential expressions of royal jelly proteins and also increase the protein concentration of the samples. Regarding the transcriptome analyses, our results suggest that the highest levels of inorganic zinc (ZNI 75) alter the largest pathway of genes related to important physiological processes, however, only the lowest concentrations of zinc from an organic source (ZNO25) showed a large increase of differentially expressed genes when related to the control group (ZN0)

Performance of Africanized honeybee colonies settled by queens selected for different traits / Desenvolvimento de colônias de Apis mellifera formadas com rainhas selecionadas para diferentes características

We evaluated varroa infestation and the performance of Africanized honeybee colonies with queens selected for honey and royal jelly production, and also unselected queens, correlating with climatic variables. In Campo Alegre, Santa Catarina State, Brazil, the experiment I used 10 Langstroth hives and in Mafra, Santa Catarina State, Brazil, the experiment II was performed with 15 Schenk hives. A mapping in areas of sealed and unsealed brood, honey and pollen was carried out on days zero, 45 and 90 days after the introduction of the queen. In the experiment I, there was interaction between the type of queen selection and the evaluation period for areas of sealed brood, honey, and total stored food. The group selected for royal jelly production presented larger sealed brood area and smaller honey area at 90 days. Varroa infestation was lower (p 0.05) at 90 days. The type of queen selection and the evaluation period influenced the sealed brood area, the total brood and the total area occupied in the colony. The high relative humidity caused greater honey storage for the local group. The different groups of queens presented different behavior according to the environment in which they are settled.

Avaliaram-se a infestação por Varroa destructor e o desenvolvimento de colônias de A. mellifera com rainhas selecionadas para produção de mel, geleia real e rainhas não selecionadas, correlacionando-se com as variáveis climáticas. No experimento I, em Campo Alegre, Estado de Santa Catariana, utilizaram-se dez colmeias Langstroth e, no experimento II, em Mafra, Estado de Santa Catariana, utilizaram-se 15 colmeias Schenk. Procedeu-se ao mapeamento das áreas de cria aberta, operculada, mel e pólen, na data de introdução, aos 45 e 90 dias após a introdução das rainhas. No experimento I, houve interação entre o tipo de seleção da rainha e a época de avaliação para as áreas de cria operculada, mel e total de alimento. O grupo selecionado para geleia real apresentou maior área de cria operculada e menor área de mel aos 90 dias. A infestação por varroa foi menor (p < 0,05) aos 90 dias. No experimento II, não foi encontrado interação para as características avaliadas. As áreas de cria operculada, total de cria e total ocupada da colônia apresentaram efeito do tipo de seleção da rainha e época de avaliação. A alta umidade relativa do ar influenciou o maior armazenamento de mel para o grupo local. Os diferentes grupos de rainhas responderam diferentemente em função do ambiente onde estão inseridas.

Performance of Africanized honeybee colonies settled by queens selected for different traits / Desenvolvimento de colônias de Apis mellifera formadas com rainhas selecionadas para diferentes características

We evaluated varroa infestation and the performance of Africanized honeybee colonies with queens selected for honey and royal jelly production, and also unselected queens, correlating with climatic variables. In Campo Alegre, Santa Catarina State, Brazil, the experiment I used 10 Langstroth hives and in Mafra, Santa Catarina State, Brazil, the experiment II was performed with 15 Schenk hives. A mapping in areas of sealed and unsealed brood, honey and pollen was carried out on days zero, 45 and 90 days after the introduction of the queen. In the experiment I, there was interaction between the type of queen selection and the evaluation period for areas of sealed brood, honey, and total stored food. The group selected for royal jelly production presented larger sealed brood area and smaller honey area at 90 days. Varroa infestation was lower (p 0.05) at 90 days. The type of queen selection and the evaluation period influenced the sealed brood area, the total brood and the total area occupied in the colony. The high relative humidity caused greater honey storage for the local group. The different groups of queens presented different behavior according to the environment in which they are settled.(AU)

Avaliaram-se a infestação por Varroa destructor e o desenvolvimento de colônias de A. mellifera com rainhas selecionadas para produção de mel, geleia real e rainhas não selecionadas, correlacionando-se com as variáveis climáticas. No experimento I, em Campo Alegre, Estado de Santa Catariana, utilizaram-se dez colmeias Langstroth e, no experimento II, em Mafra, Estado de Santa Catariana, utilizaram-se 15 colmeias Schenk. Procedeu-se ao mapeamento das áreas de cria aberta, operculada, mel e pólen, na data de introdução, aos 45 e 90 dias após a introdução das rainhas. No experimento I, houve interação entre o tipo de seleção da rainha e a época de avaliação para as áreas de cria operculada, mel e total de alimento. O grupo selecionado para geleia real apresentou maior área de cria operculada e menor área de mel aos 90 dias. A infestação por varroa foi menor (p < 0,05) aos 90 dias. No experimento II, não foi encontrado interação para as características avaliadas. As áreas de cria operculada, total de cria e total ocupada da colônia apresentaram efeito do tipo de seleção da rainha e época de avaliação. A alta umidade relativa do ar influenciou o maior armazenamento de mel para o grupo local. Os diferentes grupos de rainhas responderam diferentemente em função do ambiente onde estão inseridas.(AU)

PRODUTOS MELIPONÍCOLAS DE ABELHA JANDAÍRA (Melipona subnitida) DO SEMIÁRIDO POTIGUAR

Objetivou-se identificar a evolução tecnológica dos produtos derivados de abelhas sem ferrão e caracterizar o mel fresco e maturado, a geoprópolis e o saburá de abelha jandaíra (Melipona subnitida). Foram consultados quatro bancos de dados de escritórios de patentes, Patentscope, Espacenet, LATIPAT, INPI. Também foram coletadas 30 amostras de mel, 10 amostras de geoprópolis e 6 amostras de saburá de abelha jandaíra em diferentes municípios da região semiárida do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil. Avaliou-se as características físico-químicas, microbiológicas e sensoriais das amostras de geoprópolis in natura, dos extratos hidroetanólicos de geoprópolis produzidos, das amostras de mel in natura e do saburá. Também foram avaliados mensalmente as características do mel durante o processo de maturação de 120 dias. Foram encontradas 58 patentes publicadas relacionadas a produtos meliponícolas. O Brasil se destacou por apresentar 41,4 % de todas as patentes depositadas analisadas. A análise dos códigos de classificação IPC demonstrou que 29,3 % dos documentos de patentes foram registrados na subclasse A61K 35/644 de preparações medicinais contendo cera de abelha, própolis, geleia real ou mel. O teor de matéria mineral nas amostras de geoprópolis in natura variou de 37,5 a 82,0 g/100 g. Foi possível observar nos extratos variações de pH entre 4,15 a 5,9, densidade entre 0,796 a 0,859 g/cm3, teor de resíduo seco entre 1,0 a 17,9 g/100 ml, teor de compostos fenólicos totais 3,2 a 41,7 mg EAQ/g, de flavonoides 1,2 a 49,0 mg EQ/g e CE50 0,16 a 4,16 g/ml. Em relação a atividade antimicrobiana dos extratos foi possível identificar maiores valores de inibição frente a microrganismos gram-positivos quando comparado a cepas gram-negativas, porém a maioria dos extratos conseguiram inibir total ou parcialmente o crescimento microbiano. Quanto as características sensoriais, tanto a geoprópolis in natura quanto os extratos hidroetanólicos de geoprópolis mostraram características sensoriais diversas. Os únicos microrganismos com crescimento detectado nas amostras de mel in natura foram os bolores e leveduras com valores de contagem microbiana variando entre < 1,18 e 4,85 Log10 UFC/g. Nas amostras in natura foram encontrados valores médios de umidade 26,5 g/100 g; pH 3,5; acidez livre 36,14 mEq/kg; hidroximetilfurfural 6,15 mg/kg; açúcares redutores 67,58 g/100 g; sacarose aparente 2,89 g/100 g; sólidos insolúveis em água 0,1 g/100 g, cinzas 0,27 g/100 g e 44 % das amostras analisadas apresentaram coloração branco dágua (0 a 8 mm Pfund). No tempo inicial da maturação, o mel apresentou presença de bolores e leveduras, 3,6 ± 0,4 Log10 UFC/g, bactérias mesófilas totais 4,1 ± 0,2 Log10 UFC/g e bactérias ácido láticas 4,3 ± 0,1 Log10 UFC/g, porém após primeiro mês de maturação a presença desses microrganismos nas amostras foi praticamente zero (< 1,2 e < 1,5 Log10 UFC/g). Observou-se que o pH do mel é uma importante medida para acompanhar as alterações nele ocorrem durante o processo de maturação. Durante os 120 dias do processo o pH se tornou mais ácido gradativamente, enquanto o teor de acidez se elevava (r = -0,945; p<0,001), o teor de açúcares redutores reduzia (r = 0,962; p<0,001) e o mel se tornava mais denso (r = -0,861; p<0,001). Após 120 dias do processo de maturação, o mel apresentou aroma ácido, sabor agridoce, cor e consistência líquida inalteradas. Não houve detecção de microrganismos nas amostras de saburá analisadas, indicativo de que os processos bioquímicos e microbianos gerenciados pelas abelhas são eficientes em inibir a deterioração deste produto. Quanto aos parâmetros físico-químicos as amostras de saburá apresentaram teores médios de umidade de 27,2 g/100 g; proteína bruta 31,1 g/100 g; açúcares totais 55,2 g/100 g; pH 3,5 e acidez 1023,7 mEq/kg. Os produtos meliponícolas da abelha jandaíra demonstraram possuir potencial de mercado devido às suas características diferenciadas e propriedades biológicas.

The objective of this study was to identify the technological evolution of the stingless bees products and to characterize the fresh and matured honey, the geopropolis and the saburá of Melipona subnitida. Four patent databases were consulted, Patentscope, Espacenet, LATIPAT, INPI. Thirty honey samples, ten geopropolis samples and six saburá samples were also collected in different cities in the semi-arid region of Rio Grande do Norte state, Brazil. The physical-chemical, microbiological, and sensory characteristics of the geopropolis samples, the hydroethanolic extracts of geopropolis, the fresh honey samples and the saburá samples were evaluated. The honey characteristics were also evaluated during the 120-day maturation process. 58 filed patents were found related to stingless bee products in the world. Brazil has been highlighted for presenting 41,4% of all filed patents analyzed. The analysis of the IPC classification codes showed that 29,3% of patent documents were registered in subclass A61K 35/644 of medicinal preparations containing beeswax, propolis, royal jelly or honey. The mineral content in the geopropolis samples in natura varied from 37,5 to 82,0 g/100 g. It was possible to observe in the extracts pH variations between 4,15 to 5,9, density between 0,796 to 0,859 g/cm3, dry residue content between 1,0 to 17,9 g/100 ml, content of total phenolic compounds 3,2 to 41,7 mg EAQ/g, flavonoids 1,2 to 49,0 mg EQ/g and EC50 0.16 to 4.16 g/ml. Regarding the antimicrobial activity of the extracts, it was possible to identify higher values of inhibition against gram-positive microorganisms than gram-negative strains, however most of the extracts were able to inhibit microbial growth. Both the fresh geopropolis and the geopropolis hydroethanolic extracts showed a variety of sensory characteristics. The only microorganisms detected in fresh honey samples were molds and yeasts with microbial count values ranging between <1,18 to 4,85 Log10 CFU/g. In the fresh samples, average values of humidity were found: 26,5 g/100 g; pH 3,5; free acidity 36,14 mEq/kg; hydroxymethylfurfural 6,15 mg / kg; reducing sugars 67,58 g/100 g; apparent sucrose 2,89 g/100 g; water insoluble solids 0,1 g/100 g, ash 0,27 g/100 g and 44% of the analyzed samples showed water white color (0 to 8 mm Pfund). At the initial time of maturation, honey presented molds and yeasts, 3,6 ± 0,4 Log10 CFU/g, total mesophilic bacteria 4,1 ± 0,2 Log10 CFU/g and lactic acid bacteria 4,3 ± 0,1 Log10 CFU/g, but after the first month of maturation, the presence of these microorganisms in the samples was almost zero (<1,2 and <1,5 Log10 CFU / g). It was observed that the pH of honey is an important measure to identify the changes that occur during the maturation. During the 120 days of the process, the pH gradually became more acidic, while the acidity content increased (r = -0,945; p <0.001), the reducing sugar content decreased (r = 0,962; p <0,001) and honey it became denser (r = -0,861; p <0,001). After 120 days of the maturation process, the honey showed an acidic aroma, bittersweet flavor, the color and the liquid consistency were unchanged. There was no detection of microorganisms in the analyzed saburá samples, indicating that the biochemical and microbial processes managed by the stingless bees were efficient in inhibiting the product deterioration. As for the physical-chemical parameters, the samples of saburá showed average moisture content of 27,2 g/100 g; protein 31,1 g/100 g; total sugars 55,2 g/100 g; pH 3,5 and acidity 1023,7 mEq/kg. The jandaira products have great market potential due to their different characteristics and biological properties.

Manejo de colônias com duas rainhas para produção de geleia real

Foi avaliado o potencial de produção de geleia real em colônias de abelhas Apis mellifera africanizadas usando técnicas com duas rainhas por colônia em sistemas horizontais e verticais durante a primavera de 2019, no setor de apicultura da Fazenda Experimental de Iguatemi, Universidade Estadual de Maringá-UEM. As técnicas foram testadas quanto ao seu efeito sobre a porcentagem de aceitação de larvas (%) e produção de geleia real por colônia (g), período de coleta (g), cúpula (mg) e sarrafo (g) e comparadas com técnicas de produção tradicionais denominadas recria e minirrecria na região sul do Brasil. Foram realizadas 22869 transferências de larvas. A geleia real produzida por período de coleta apresentou diferenças entre tratamentos, colônias com duas rainhas e manejo vertical produziram significativamente maior quantidade de geleia real (53,28± 4,98g) comparadas com colônias com uma única rainha em manejo recria (32.76 ±3,57g) e minirrecria (14,45 ±2,48g), mas, não diferiram das colônias com duas rainhas com manejo horizontal (49,21±4,56g). Não houve diferença entre colônias com duas rainhas e manejo horizontal e colônias com única rainha e manejo recria. Na produção de geleia real por colônia, abelhas A. mellifera colônias com duas rainhas com manejo vertical e horizontal tiveram desempenho médio significativamente superior as colônias manejadas em sistema recria e minirrecria com valores de 8,26 e 5,04, 8,09 e 5,66, 4,30 e 6,99 e 2.03 e 2,45g, respectivamente. Colônias com duas rainhas produziram 96,24% mais geleia por período de coleta e 112% mais geleia real por colônia considerando a média de cada um dos tratamentos e apresentaram maior porcentagem de aceitação comparado com sistemas de uma única rainha. Conclui-se que colônias com duas rainhas manejadas em sistemas vertical ou horizontal, produzem maior quantidade de geleia real comparadas com colônias com uma única rainha.

The potential of royal jelly production in Africanized honeybee colonies was evaluated using techniques with two- queens per colony in horizontal and vertical systems during the spring of 2019 in the apiary at Universidade Estadual de Maringá. The techniques were tested for their effect on the larvae acceptance percentage (%), royal jelly production per colony (g), harvest period (g) cell cup (mg) and bars(g), compared with traditional production techniques called overlapped hives and overlapped nucleus in southern Brazil. There were performed 22869 larvae transfers. Results showed statistic differences in royal jelly producing between methods (p<0.05), two queens vertical colonies produced significantly greater amount of royal jelly per harvest (53.28±4.98g) compared with single queen colonies in hives overlapping, (32.76±3.57g) and nucleus overlapping (14.45 ±2.48g), but did not differ from two-queen horizontal colonies (46.81±4.91g), there was no difference between two-queen horizontal colonies and single queen colonies in hives. For royal jelly production, A. mellifera bees in a vertical system had an average performance significantly superior to two-queen horizontal colonies, overlapped hives, and overlapped nucleus, with values of 8,26 and 5,04, 8,09 and 5,66, 4,30 and 6,99 and 2.03 and 2,45g per colony, respectively. Two-queen colonies produced 96,24% more royal jelly per harvest period and 112% more royal jelly per colony, showed a higher percentage of acceptance and royal jelly per cell cup compared to single queen systems. It is concluded that vertical and horizontal two-queens colonies produce a greater amount of royal jelly compared to single queen colonies.

Qualidade espermática de zangões de Apis mellifera L. selecionados para produção de geleia real

A geleia real é de ampla importância dentro da colônia para alimentação da rainha e das larvas, e, em zangões, ajuda na regulação de hormônios sexuais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características reprodutivas dos zangões de colônias que apresentam dois alelos para maior produção de geleia real em relação às colônias com pelo menos um alelo de menor produção. Em um estudo conduzido em 18 colônias de Apis mellifera L. localizadas em Maringá, PR, e mediante análises moleculares utilizando microssatélite de MRJP3, foi avaliada a presença dos alelos C, D e E, para maior produção de geleia real, e dos alelos A, B, F e G para baixa produção de geleia real. Com base nos resultados, foram conduzidas as criações de zangões de seis colônias selecionadas, sendo três delas com a presença de alelos de maior produção de geleia real (DE e EE) e três com um alelo de menor produção (EF e EG); ainda, foi realizada a avaliação da qualidade do sêmen e o peso de cada um dos zangões. As colônias que apresentaram os alelos DE e EE tiveram uma maior produção de zangões, mas com pesos menores em relação às colônias que apresentaram alelos EF e EG. No entanto, não foi observada a interferência dos alelos sobre a qualidade espermática do zangão, em que a média das variáveis foi: sobrevivência 88,38%, volume 1,2 µL, turbilhonamento em massa cinco, e as principais anormalidades dos espermatozoides foram cauda dobrada, cabeça solta, cauda solta e cauda bifurcada. Os alelos de maior produção de geleia real influenciaram o peso e a quantidade de zangões criados nas colônias de A. mellifera, mas não a qualidade espermática.

Royal jelly is of great importance within the colony to feed the queen and as larvae, and in drones, it helps in the regulation of sex hormones. This research was carried out to evaluate as reproductive resources of colony drones that presented two alleles for greater production of royal jelly concerning colonies with less than one lesser allele. Through molecular analysis using MRJP3 microsatellite, the presence of alleles C, D and E were evaluated for greater production of royal jelly, and alleles A, B, F and G for low production of royal jelly in 18 colonies of Apis mellifera L. located in Maringá, PR. Drones were reared from six selected colonies, three with the presence of alleles of greater production of royal jelly (DE and EE) and three with an allele of less production (EF and EG), and the evaluation of the semen quality and the weight of each one was evaluated. The colonies that presented the DE and EE alleles had a higher production of drones, but with lower weights concerning the colonies that presented EF and EG alleles. As the colonies that exhibited alleles for greater production of royal jelly, there was a greater production of drones, but with lower weights about the colonies that presented alleles of royal jelly lower production. However, no allele interference was observed on the sperm quality of the drone, with an average of the following variables: 88.38%, volume 1.2 µL, mass swirling five and main abnormalities of the spermatozoa were bent tail, headless, tailless sperm, and bifurcated tail. The alleles of greater production of royal jelly influence the weight and number of drones reared in the colonies of A. mellifera, but not in the sperm quality.

Varroa destructor mite in Africanized honeybee colonies Apis mellifera L. under royal jelly or honey production / Varroa destructor em colônias de abelhas africanizadas Apis mellifera submetidas à produção de geleia real ou mel

This study evaluated the level of invasion of Varroa mite into worker brood cells, the infestation rate on adult worker honeybees, total and effective reproduction rates of the mite in Africanized honeybee colonies under royal jelly or honey production. Invasion and infestation rates were not statistically different between honeybee colonies producing honey or royal jelly and the averages for these parameters were 5.79 and 8.54%, respectively. Colonies producing honey presented a higher (p 0.05) total and effective reproduction of Varroa than colonies producing royal jelly. There was a negative correlation between levels of invasion and infestation with minimum external temperature, relative humidity and rainfall. The variables month and season influenced the development of the mite, but rates were low and within the range normally found in Brazil for Africanized honeybee colonies, which confirm the greater resistance of these honeybees to Varroa destructor than European honeybees.

O objetivo foi analisar o nível de invasão do ácaro nas pupas, a taxa de infestação do ácaro nas abelhas adultas, as taxas de reprodução total e efetiva do ácaro em colônias de abelhas africanizadas e se esses níveis são influenciados pela produção de geleia real ou mel. As taxas de invasão nas pupas e infestação nas abelhas adultas não apresentaram diferença estatística entre os tratamentos, as médias para esses parâmetros foram 5,79 e 8,54%, respectivamente. As colônias submetidas à produção de mel apresentaram maior nível de reprodução total e efetiva (p 0,05) do ácaro em relação às colônias produtoras de geleia real. Houve correlação negativa dos níveis de invasão nas pupas e infestação nas abelhas adultas com a temperatura externa mínima, umidade relativa do ar e precipitação. As variáveis mês e o período do ano influenciaram o desenvolvimento do parasita, entretanto, as taxas obtidas foram baixas e dentro dos valores normalmente encontrados no Brasil para abelhas africanizadas.

Varroa destructor mite in Africanized honeybee colonies Apis mellifera L. under royal jelly or honey production / Varroa destructor em colônias de abelhas africanizadas Apis mellifera submetidas à produção de geleia real ou mel

This study evaluated the level of invasion of Varroa mite into worker brood cells, the infestation rate on adult worker honeybees, total and effective reproduction rates of the mite in Africanized honeybee colonies under royal jelly or honey production. Invasion and infestation rates were not statistically different between honeybee colonies producing honey or royal jelly and the averages for these parameters were 5.79 and 8.54%, respectively. Colonies producing honey presented a higher (p 0.05) total and effective reproduction of Varroa than colonies producing royal jelly. There was a negative correlation between levels of invasion and infestation with minimum external temperature, relative humidity and rainfall. The variables month and season influenced the development of the mite, but rates were low and within the range normally found in Brazil for Africanized honeybee colonies, which confirm the greater resistance of these honeybees to Varroa destructor than European honeybees.(AU)

O objetivo foi analisar o nível de invasão do ácaro nas pupas, a taxa de infestação do ácaro nas abelhas adultas, as taxas de reprodução total e efetiva do ácaro em colônias de abelhas africanizadas e se esses níveis são influenciados pela produção de geleia real ou mel. As taxas de invasão nas pupas e infestação nas abelhas adultas não apresentaram diferença estatística entre os tratamentos, as médias para esses parâmetros foram 5,79 e 8,54%, respectivamente. As colônias submetidas à produção de mel apresentaram maior nível de reprodução total e efetiva (p 0,05) do ácaro em relação às colônias produtoras de geleia real. Houve correlação negativa dos níveis de invasão nas pupas e infestação nas abelhas adultas com a temperatura externa mínima, umidade relativa do ar e precipitação. As variáveis mês e o período do ano influenciaram o desenvolvimento do parasita, entretanto, as taxas obtidas foram baixas e dentro dos valores normalmente encontrados no Brasil para abelhas africanizadas.(AU)

Efeito da geleia real comercial sobre a atividade ovulatória e fertilidade de ovelhas submetidas à sincronização do estro e inseminação artificial

Com a intenção de avaliar o efeito da geleia real sobre as respostas estral, ovulatória e de fertilidade de ovelhas no semiárido do Vale do São Francisco, 33 fêmeas ovinas foram distribuídas em três grupos. No Grupo eCG, os estros das ovelhas foram sincronizados através da colocação intravaginal de um dispositivo interno de liberação controlada de 330 mg de progesterona (PRIMER®), por 12 dias, bem como pela aplicação, por via intramuscular (i.m.), de 75 g de cloprostenol e 200UI de eCG (gonadotrofina coriônica equina), 48 h antes da retirada do PRIMER®; nos grupos GR500 e GR750, as ovelhas receberam o mesmo tratamento empregado no grupo eCG, com exceção da substituição da aplicação única de eCG pela administração oral e diária de 500 mg e 750 mg de geleia real, respectivamente, durante a permanência do dispositivo. Para a detecção do estro, foi utilizado um carneiro de libido comprovada, a cada 4 horas, a partir de 12 horas após a remoção do PRIMER®. As fêmeas foram consideradas em estro quando se tornaram imóveis em relação à monta pelo macho. As inseminações artificiais transcervicais foram realizadas, 42 horas após a retirada do PRIMER®, com sêmen a fresco e diluído. A taxa de gestação foi avaliada nas ovelhas, 45 dias após IA, por ultrassonografia. Colheitas de sangue foram realizadas 10 dias após a inseminação artificial, por meio de punção da veia jugular, através do uso de tubos de vacuolizados. O sangue foi, posteriormente, centrifugado e armazenado em tubos eppendorf a -20ºC, até a dosagem de prosgesterona. A análise estatística foi realizada, utilizando-se o programa SAS versão 12. Os dados foram expressos em média ± erro padrão ou em porcentagem. Para comparação dos parâmetros entre os grupos, foi utilizada a Análise de Variância (ANOVA), seguida da realização do teste de Tukey. Os dados em porcentagem foram submetidos ao Teste do Qui-quadrado. As diferenças foram consideradas significativas quando P<0,05. Todas as fêmeas apresentaram estro. Entretanto, independente do grupo de tratamento, as maiores (P<0,05) concentrações de estros ocorreram 24 h após a retirada do PRIMER®. Dentro do intervalo de 12 a 24 horas, o grupo eCG apresentou uma proporção de ovelhas em estro significativamente maior (P<0,05) que os grupos GR500 e GR750. As ovelhas com estros sincronizados nos diferentes grupos não apresentaram diferenças (P<0,05) com relação ao início do estro. Já com relação à taxa de fertilidade os tratamentos com geléia real demonstraram igual eficácia. Com relação à dosagem de progesterona nos diferentes grupos de tratamento, não foi observado diferença significativa (P<0,05). Em conclusão, as duas concentrações pelos quais a geleia real foi administrada (500 e 750 mg) mostram-se igualmente eficazes para uso com progesterona exógena para substituir a eCG e melhorar resposta de estro e a taxa de prenhez de ovinos.

With the intention of evaluating the effect of royal jelly on estrous, ovulatory and fertility responses of sheep in the semiarid of the Saint Francisco Valley, 33 sheep females were allocated into three groups. In the ECG Group, estrus of ewes were synchronized by intravaginal placement of an internal controlled-release device of 330 mg of progesterone (PRIMER®), for 12 days, as well as by application, intramuscularly (im), of 75 g of cloprostenol and 200 IU of eCG (equine chorionic gonadotropin), 48 h before the PRIMER® removal; in the GR500 and GR750 groups, ewes received the same treatment used in the ECG group, except for the replacement of the single application of eCG, by dairy and oral administration of 500 mg and 750 mg of royal jelly, respectively, during a permanence of the device. To detect estrus, a proven libido ram was used every 4 h, starting 12 h after PRIMER® removal. Females were considered in oestrus when they were immobile in relation to a male mating. Transcervical artificial inseminations were performed 42 h after device removal with fresh and diluted semen. Pregnancy rate was evaluated in ewes, 45 days after AI, by ultrasound. Blood collections were performed 10 days after artificial insemination, through puncture of the jugular vein and using vacuolized tubes. Blood was subsequently centrifuged and stored in the eppendorf tubes at -20ºC until progesterone assay. Statistical analysis was performed using the SAS version 12 program. Data were expressed as mean ± standard error or as a percentage. To compare parameters between groups, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used, followed by the Tukey test. Percentage data were submitted to the Chi-square test. Differences were used when P<0.05. All females presented estrous. However, regardless of the treatment group, the biggest (P<0.05) estrus concentrations were occurred 24 h after PRIMER® withdrawal. Within the 12 to 24 h interval, the eCG group presented a proportion of ewes in estrus significantly (P<0.05) bigger than GR500 and GR750 groups. Regarding estrus onset, it was not verified significant difference among groups. Regarding the fertility rate, ewes treated with royal jelly demonstrated equal effectiveness. Regarding the progesterone dosage in the different treatment groups, no significant difference was observed (P<0.05). In conclusion, royal jelly (500 and 750 mg) can be used to substitute eCG to promote efficient estrus response and fertility rate in sheep.