ARCHIVES
VOL. 10, ISSUE 4 (2025)
Assessment of pollinator diversity and foraging dynamics in the drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) ecosystem of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district, Maharashtra, India
Authors
Meghraj S More, Dr. Raosaheb K Barote, Somnath B Choure
Abstract
A comprehensive field investigation was
undertaken to document and analyse the diversity, abundance, and foraging
behaviour of pollinators in a drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.)
orchard located in Itkheda village, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district, Maharashtra,
during the peak flowering season of January-December 2020. The study employed
systematic visual counts, timed observations, and specimen collection across
diurnal cycles. A total of 17 distinct pollinator species were recorded,
systematically classified into the orders Hymenoptera (9 species), Lepidoptera
(5 species), Diptera (1 species), and the avian order Passeriformes (2
species). The family Apidae within Hymenoptera was the most species-rich and
abundant, with key pollinators including the giant honey bee (Apis dorsata),
the little honey bee (Apis florea), and three species of carpenter bees
(Xylocopa pubescens, X. violacea, and X. fenestrata). Foraging activity
exhibited distinct temporal patterns, with hymenopterans dominating the
forenoon and lepidopterans and avian visitors peaking during midday.
Qualitative assessment of pollen loads identified Xylocopa species as
the most efficient pollinators, followed by Apis dorsata. The study also
notes the significant presence of the stingless bee Meliponula
ferruginea and two species of sunbirds (Leptocoma
zeylonica and Cinnyris asiaticus). These results emphasize the
essential function of a diverse pollinator guild in the reproductive success of
this economically significant "Miracle Tree" and underscore the
imperative for conservation-focused agricultural practices in the area.
Download
Pages:42-45
How to cite this article:
Meghraj S More, Dr. Raosaheb K Barote, Somnath B Choure "Assessment of pollinator diversity and foraging dynamics in the drumstick (<i>Moringa oleifera</i> Lam.) ecosystem of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district, Maharashtra, India". International Journal of Zoology Studies, Vol 10, Issue 4, 2025, Pages 42-45
Download Author Certificate
Please enter the email address corresponding to this article submission to download your certificate.