PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF AFRICAN HONEY BEE STRAIN/HI AND JEMENITICA IN SPECIAL TENT UNDER DESERT CONDITIONS

In the northern east of Saudi Arabia, Zizyehus spina Ch. (Rhamnaceae) considered as one of the most important wild trees. Their flowering seasons start during August and September of each year, depending on rainfall. The flow season is very short and it comes in a hard condition. Studying the fluctuation of the native bees productivity comparing with African Honey Bee strain/Hi is very important to investigate what type of bees race will produce more honey, under hot and dry condition in the desert area. Results showed that the total amount of bee honey was 252.5±103.7 versus 372.4±88.3 Sq In for Apis mellifera jemenitica and Egyptian-Carniolan/Hi, respectively. The significant difference (P≤0.01) in the amount of bee honey means that the Egyptian-Carniolan/Hi is more productive than the A. mellifera jemenitica. Therefore, quick steps toward a management program for dominating this honeybee's race will be important to improve beekeeping industries in the desert area.