Vol. 12, Special Issue 10 (2023)

Author(s):
Sonu Bharti and Mohammad Sarfaraz Khan

Abstract:
This research examines the nesting activity and foraging plant of the golden mining bee, Nomia aurata, at G.B Pant University of Agriculture and Technology Pantnagar (India). The research investigates the provision collection time, deposition time, nesting activity period and the effect of abiotic factors on these activities. A total of 30 nests were located at 3 different nesting beds during the weekly survey at the Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre and Vegetable Research Centre. Detailed nesting activity of the female of the 3 nests located in the close proximity with each other was recorded. The foraging plants were also documented for the bees. Nomia bees, also known as alkali bees, are skilled pollinators of various crops, including alfalfa and onions. They outperform honey bees due to their unique flower opening technique. They also pollinate fruit crops like apples, cherries, and plums. Nomia bees engage in generalist foraging behaviour, interacting with wildflower species like composites and umbellifers. The golden mining bee, Nomia aurata, is a pivotal pollinator for several plant species, including dandelions, Trifolium spp, and Vicia spp. Throughout the observation period, the bee's foraging habits were catalogued, revealing preferences for a range of plants from different families. Prominently, Polygonum effusum emerged as the favoured plant for provisioning, closely followed by Lysimachia arvensis.