Beekeepers have a new tool to keep their colonies healthy, with the publication of a landmark reference book by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Honey and Pollen Flora of South-Eastern Australia.
NSW DPI Technical Specialist – Bees and author, Doug Somerville said the book focused on the value of key plants to nectar-feeding animals in Australia, with particular emphasis on honey bee nutritional requirements.
“Successful beekeepers understand the biology and value of floral resources which provide critical nectar and pollen to their bee hives, keeping them healthy and profitable,” Dr Somerville said.
“The book distils over 30 years of research and the real world experience of hundreds of professional beekeepers, which will contribute to a substantial increase in floral understanding in apiculture,” he said.
“From Acacia to Xanthorrhoea species, over 500 plants are photographed and described for easy identification.”
Dr Somerville said each species was also mapped and given a star rating for their value to honey bees either as a source of nectar, pollen or both.
He said the book covered: what makes an ideal apiary site; hive stocking rate; honey bee nutrition; star rating; a note on flowering charts; describing plants; list families – genus/species; and individual plant profiles.
The 680-page book is now available for purchase on the Tocal website, at this PS News link.
