The value of a tree species (Caryocar brasiliense) for a stingless bee Melipona quadrifasciata quadrifasciata

摘要: The expansion of crop lands and increased logging for charcoal production in the Brazilian savannahs (“cerrados”) has reduced richness abundance Meliponini bees. This may be a consequence limitation availability potential nesting substrate. role cerrado-tree (Caryocar brasiliense) providing substrate Melipona quadrifasciata was evaluated. Tree (p= 0.006) branch 0.001) diameters, number suitable branches (n= 513), height trees bee were all important to conservation M. quadrifasciata. However, high did not seem limit nest density nor cause clumped pattern distributions found study site. Nests 48) mainly individuals C. brasiliense 46) suggesting an active tree selection. In addition, nests located on highest (mean = 4.6 m, sd 1 n= had lower probability being extirpated by human honey collectors.