Conservation of Local Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) in Southeastern Turkey: A Preliminary Study for Morphological Characterization and Determination of Colony Performance

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The biggest obstacles in the conservation of existing honeybee subspecies and ecotypes may be the concentration of beekeeping activity in certain flora zones as well as the beekeeper’s choice of queen genotype. In this study, various morphological characteristics and colony performance parameters of local honeybees in Southeastern Turkey were investigated. As a result, homogenous honeybees can be found in the Adıyaman province in terms of morphological characteristics. Although the colony performance values of local honeybees are modest, their capacity to adapt to dry regions and limited vegetation and the preservation of their genetic material are critical attributes. Local honeybees can be used as genetic material in selection and breeding due to their hygienic behavior, survival rate, and high wintering abilities. ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological traits and colony performance parameters of local honeybees of the Adıyaman province for future breeding programs. The study was carried out in 2019–2020; a total of 39 colonies were obtained from 13 apiaries in 5 districts, which represented local honeybees, and they were placed in an isolated area. At the same time, 835 worker bees representing local honeybees were assessed for 21 morphological features. There was a difference between the district groups according to the morphological traits (p < 0.05). In terms of the morphological characteristics of honeybees, the correct classification rate to their original groups was determined to be 65.1%. The difference between the district groups was statistically significant regarding the number of frames covered with bees, brood area, and hygienic behavior (p < 0.05). The average weight at the emergence of queens according to district groups and flight activity was found to be significant according to the periods (p < 0.01). As a result, homogeneous honeybees can be found in provinces when considering morphological characteristics. Although colony performance values are low, it is essential to protect the bees’ genetic material given their ability to adapt to arid climates and insufficient flora.