Science updates: Effect of Hive Color on Colony Performance

 

Science updates:

Effect of Hive Color on Colony Performance

 

 

The research investigates how the color of beehives might influence the internal temperature and, consequently, the performance of honey bee colonies. The study was conducted in Van, Türkiye, between June 27 and July 26, with data recorded every 59 minutes using data recorders placed inside hives of three different color combinations: white, blue, and blue with white covers.

 

The results showed that the white hives had the lowest average temperature compared to the blue hives and the blue hives with white covers, both during the day and the hottest hours (10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). The one-way variance analysis indicated a statistically significant difference among the groups (p<0.001), suggesting that hive color significantly affects internal temperature.

 

 

The study highlights the importance of temperature regulation within honey bee colonies for brood production and colony health. Honey bees maintain a stable temperature through various thermoregulation mechanisms, such as ventilation and water evaporation, to keep the brood area between 32-36 °C. High temperatures can be harmful, leading to increased susceptibility to diseases and pests, reduced lifespan, and damage to wax material.

 

The research concludes that white-colored hives contribute significantly to colony performance by aiding in temperature regulation, especially in hot climates. The authors suggest that painting hives white, along with other measures like ventilation and shading, can help mitigate the adverse effects of high temperatures on honey bee colonies. The study also recommends using geometric shapes in different colors at hive entrances to prevent confusion for bees in apiaries where all hives are painted white.

 

This research provides valuable insights into the impact of hive color on honey bee colony performance and offers practical recommendations for beekeepers to enhance the welfare and productivity of their colonies, particularly in the context of global warming and rising environmental temperatures.

 

Reference:

Erkan, C., & Öztürk, Y. (2024). POTENTIAL EFFECT OF HIVE COLOR ON HONEY BEE COLONY PERFORMANCE. Acta Biológica Colombiana, 29(2).

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