Análise sazonal do limiar de dispersão da espécie Melipona quadrifasciata (Apidae: Meliponini) em um ambiente antropizado

Abstract

Animals move freely through the environment in search for resources. The stability of ecosystems determines the relationships between species and their biodiversity. However, anthropogenic interference in the environment increasingly threatens ecological relationships and the survival of species. Bees play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystems, but their influence is limited by the flight capacity of each species. Various biotic and abiotic factors influence this capacity. In the case of bees from the genus Melipona, the flight distance is approximately 2000 meters. Using the mark-release-recapture technique, this study aimed to evaluate the flight distance and return capacity of individuals from the stingless bee species Melipona quadrifasciata in an anthropized environment. Colonies were placed in semi-field conditions within an anthropized landscape for analysis over time. The released bees were monitored using a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) system, which allowed for individual tracking and recording of return times. Return capacity was assessed based on the number of bees that returned during both rainy and dry seasons, as well as across a gradient of distances. The intertegular span was used to determine the size of the bees, and land-use classes were employed to identify factors influencing return capacity. Returns were observed at distances of up to 7500 meters. The distance gradient and bee size influenced both the capacity and time taken to return to the colony. The results indicated that bee size and land-use classes are factors influencing both the capacity and time of return for this species. Although no strong evidence was found regarding the influence of climatic seasonality, a reduction in the number of returns was observed during the rainy season.