Pattern of Nectariferous Plant Diversity of African Honeybee (Apis mellifera adansonii L.) in Awka and Agulu Environs, Southeast Nigeria

This study was conducted between May 2014 and April 2015, to assess the pattern of nectariferous plant diversity of African honeybee (Apis mellifera adansonii) in different areas in Awka and Agulu environs, Southeast Nigeria. Transect sampling method was used to determine the abundance, distribution and diversity of these plants. Plant species were collected and identified. A total of 83 nectariferous plant species categorized into 31 families were identified to be attractive to honeybees in Awka and Agulu environs with Asteraceae (31%, 25%) being the highly visited, followed by Euphorbiaceae and Vebenaceae in all the study areas. High diversity and richness of plants in all the study areas are good indication that Awka and Agulu environs are potential sites for apiculture and beekeeping. This study recommended that these plants be conserved in these areas.