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FORMATION OF NUCLEI Tetragonisca angustula IN URBANPRODUCTION OF VILLAVICENCIO: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY
Contextualization: Tetragonisca angustula, commonly known as the angel bee, belongs to the group of stingless bees. It is a promising species of economic
interest due to the quality of its honey and its attributed important medicinal properties (such as tissue regeneration). Additionally, these bees play a role in
pollinating wild plants and other species cultivated by humans. However, their exploitation has often been extractive, causing damage to the bee colonies when
harvested or captured to form new colonies for zootechnical purposes.
Knowledge gap: Although renewable containers for the angel bee have been studied, the formation of nuclei remains a topic of controversy. Therefore, this work
is conducted empirically through direct observation, seeking a solution to implement a protocol that allows for the establishment of techniques for the formation of Tetragonisca angustula nuclei and the strengthening of the population for an urban meliponary dedicated to this species.
Purpose: The process of nucleus formation in the Tetragonisca angustula bee within the context of urban production in Villavicencio. The study explored factors
such as habitat characteristics and the species’ adaptation to anthropized environments.
Methodology: This study is an empirical investigation using the trial-and-error method and direct observation. It aims to establish patterns by comparing nuclei
and internal architecture, ultimately determining a biological pattern in the architectural construction of the nucleus by meliponines.
Results and conclusions: In this study, it was observed that the vessels used to establish the hive’s habitat must have a vertical structure with two cavities (upper and lower). The genetic architecture of stingless bees, such as Tetragonisca angustula, is programmed to adapt to these spaces, and the vessel acts as a protective barrier. Despite lacking a stinger, these bees neutralize aggressors at their own expense. Additionally, the importance of recycling and considering the
circadian cycle when creating new nuclei is emphasized.
