The superiority of bumblebees to honeybees as pollinators: insect visits to raspberry flowers.

摘要: Abstract. 1The behaviour and activity patterns of Apis mellifera five species Bombus were analysed in relation to climatic variables nectar quality on three varieties unsprayed cultivated raspberry (Rubus idaeus) eastern Scotland. 2Stages floral morphology reward similar for the varieties: young flowers offered both pollen, but medium old only, diminishing quantities. 3A wide range insects visited flowers, bees dominant, bumblebees being responsible about 60% all visits honeybees making up most remaining percentage. All had substantial pollen deposited their bodies during visits, though few specifically collected it. 4Bombus spp. found favour (receptive) strongly, especially early morning when was abundant: whilst unselectively. Bumblebees also foraged over substantially longer periods day, poorer weather, some present at times observation; they more quickly terms flower per minute. 5Bombus carried than Apis, stigmas, with B.lapidarius B.terrestris particularly effective abundant species. a range, moving between canes rows frequently did honeybees. 6Bumblebees are therefore likely be important as pollinators raspberries honeybees, moderately self-fertile may exhibit metaxenia. Reasons why preferred pollinator sites cultivation discussed, together implications future growers.