In order to strengthen the protection of native stingless bees and other pollinating insects, the Poli-LAC project developed the first meliponiculture workshop in the Oxapampa-Asháninka-Yánesha Biosphere Reserve (BIOAY). This activity trained 20 key stakeholders in the territory, including representatives of the Biosphere Reserve Management, native communities, Sernanp park rangers, beekeepers and local producers.
During the workshop held at the Yanachaga Center (Huancabamba), participants learned to identify native bee species such as the “child bee” (Tetragonisca angustula) and the “curco bee” (Melipona eburnea), as well as basic techniques for their management and protection. Among the topics discussed were the preparation of the floral calendar, the preparation of attractants for responsible capture, the making of rational and practical boxes for pest control, always with a focus on respect for the ecosystem.
Carlos Maldonado, meliponiculture trainer and workshop trainer, stressed the importance of revaluing these species. “Bees are very important in the ecosystem because they are pollinators par excellence. Thanks to them and other pollinators, our crops and the forest are maintained,” he said.
It was also noted that melipona bees play a key role in ecosystems and are currently threatened by deforestation, climate change and the irresponsible use of agrochemicals. In addition, the value of their honey, recognized for its medicinal properties, represents an opportunity for sustainable economic development at the local level.
Making of a rational box for the breeding of native bees.
Photo: Profonanpe
“Within our Biosphere Reserve, pollinators such as our native bees, flies, beetles and other insects are key to sustaining production chains. Knowing and valuing them is fundamental,” said Flor Sánchez, BIOAY manager.
The participants were selected with the objective of becoming replicators of the knowledge acquired, promoting meliponiculture as a sustainable practice and an ally of conservation.
In this regard, Gladis Shareva, head of the Belén Native Community, highlighted the importance of the workshop for her community, where native bees are disappearing. “These spaces allow us to learn how to protect them and share that knowledge with children and families, who still know little about pollinating insects,” she said, highlighting the importance of the trainings to strengthen the care of bees in her territory.
In Peru, 175 species of native stingless bees have been reported. The protection of these species and other pollinating insects is key to maintaining the balance of ecosystems, food production and the well-being of local communities.
Production of attractant for native bees.
Photo: Profonanpe
About Poli-LAC
In Peru, the regional project “Protection of pollinating insects in Latin America and the Caribbean (Poli-LAC)” is a joint effort of the Ministry of the Environment and the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation, in alliance with Profonanpe, with the support of German development cooperation, implemented by GIZ, on behalf of the International Climate Initiative (IKI) of the German Federal Government.
