Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Journal of Apicultural Research
Volume
7
Issue
1
Publisher
Bee Research Association
Publication Date
1968
First Page
21
Last Page
27
Abstract
Selection within lines for honeybees showing strong and weak tendencies toward collection of alfalfa pollen was continued through the fifth generation. In the line with a strong tendency (high line), the average percentage of pollen collectors collecting alfalfa pollen increased from 66% in the fourth generation to 85% in the fifth. In the line with the weak tendency (low line), the corresponding percentages were 8% and 18 %. Backcrosses of the two lines resulted in an intermediate mean. At Howell, Utah, where other pollen than alfalfa was scarce, the percentages were 99% and 53% for the high and low lines respectively, and at Fielding, Utah, where other pollen was abundant, they were 54% and 2%. Although we have not compared the productive ability of the high line with that of commercial bees, results' suggest that commercially useful strains could be developed.
Taxonomic Grouping
Honey bees
Recommended Citation
Nye, W. P. and O. Mackensen. 1968. Selective Breeding of Honeybees for Alfalfa Pollen: Fifth Generation and Backcrosses. J. Apic. Res. 7(1):21-27, figs., tables.