Evaluation of the nutritive value of maize for honey bees

In modern managed agro-ecosystems, the supply of adequate food from blooming crops is limited to brief periods. During periods of pollen deficiencies, bees are forced to forage on alternative crops, such as maize. However, pollen of maize is believed to be a minor food source for bees as it is thought to be lacking in proteins and essential amino acids. This study was conducted to verify this assumption. In maize, a strikingly low concentration of histidine was found, but the amount of all other essential amino acids was greater than that of mixed pollen. The performance and the immunocompetence of bees consuming a pure maize pollen diet (A) was compared to bees feeding on a polyfloral pollen diet (B) and to bees feeding on an artificial substitute of pollen (C). Consumption of diets A and C were linked to a reduction in brood rearing and lifespan. However, no immunological effects were observed based on two parameters of the humoral immunity.

Graphical abstractDownload full-size imageHighlights► Longevity in honeybees depends on nutrition. ► Pure maize pollen diet shortens the lifespan of honeybees. ► Pure maize pollen diet hinders the brood rearing in a bee colony. ► The immunocompetence of honeybees is not affected by exclusively maize pollen.