Etude ethnoécologique des abeilles sans dard Meliponula (Apidae, Hymenoptera) dans le Parc National de la Ruvubu

Abstract

Bees are threatened in particular by the destruction of their habitat in search of honey. In addition, aspects related to their ethnoecology remain poorly documented in many parts of Africa, including Burundi. This study, carried out in the Ruvubu National Park, contributes to the conservation of stingless bees in the rest of Burundi's natural ecosystems. Arthropods associated with the habitats of stingless bees were collected. In addition, to determine the physicochemical conditions of t heir habitat, soil specimens were taken from termite mounds associated with stingless bees. Then, an ethnoecological survey was carried out among the local population to identify their traditional knowledge on the ecology and uses related to stingless bees The results of our study show that stingless bees are associated with termite mounds of Macroterminae probably in search of optimal humidity and temperature conditions, but also protection against predators. The physicochemical parameters of termite moun d soils show a high content of clay and silt for termite mounds sheltering stingless bees than those without stingless bees. Indeed, termites that build nests have a particular need for clay and other colloidal materials including silt to build strong habi tats that they probably use to keep them safe from predators and fluctuating therm al conditions. Local people provide detailed information on the ecology, food and medicinal use of honey from stingless bees, as well as the use of their wax. However, the im portance of stingless bees in plant pollination is almost unknown locally. These various pieces of information collected during this study constitute an important database for the conservation of stingless bees.