Volume 17, Issue 2 (9-2023)
مرتع 2023, 17(2): 299-311 |
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Khabazi J, Khavaninzadeh A, Mirjalili A, Dadgostar S, Mohamadi M J. Investigation on the effective indices for honey production in Rangelands (Case study: Rangelands of Taft city in Yazd province). مرتع 2023; 17 (2) :299-311
URL: http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-1194-en.html
URL: http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-1194-en.html
Jafar Khabazi 
, Alireza Khavaninzadeh , Alibeman Mirjalili , Shahram Dadgostar , Mohammad Javad Mohamadi
, Alireza Khavaninzadeh , Alibeman Mirjalili , Shahram Dadgostar , Mohammad Javad Mohamadi
Department of Nature Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Ardakan University, Ardakan
Abstract: (1022 Views)
Background and Objectives: The shift from single-purpose grazing to the multi-purpose utilization of rangelands has become important due to increased societal needs and awareness among researchers and stakeholders. Understanding the ecological capabilities and evaluating natural ecosystems are essential for proper management and planning of natural resources. Beekeeping is one potential utilization of rangeland ecosystems, as Iran's four-season climate provides favorable conditions for honey production. However, the lack of knowledge regarding the quantitative and qualitative status of plant species in terms of their value and importance for bees, as well as the absence of effective indicators, hinders proper exploitation of pastures for honey production. This research aimed to investigate and identify the natural and management indicators influencing honey production.
Methodology: Thirteen natural indicators and sixteen management indicators affecting honey production were selected as independent variables using a Likert scale questionnaire. Honey production index was used as the dependent variable. A sample of 67 beekeepers was randomly selected from a population of 81, based on Cochran's formula. Questionnaire validity was assessed by professors and experts, and reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha statistic.
Results: Statistical analysis using rank mean test in SPSS software revealed that the percentage of nectar-producing and pollinating species had the highest rank (3.14) among the natural indicators, followed by the duration of the flowering period (3.01). Among the management indicators, the type of nutrition consumed by bees ranked first (3.05), followed by the existence of water resources (2.97). Spearman correlation coefficient indicated a positive and significant correlation (99% confidence level) between natural and management indicators. Additionally, Spearman's correlation coefficient and Kendall's tau-b showed a positive and significant correlation (99% confidence level) between natural and management indicators. The percentage of nectar-producing and pollinating species, length of the flowering period, amount of rainfall, cloudiness, pasture condition, and slope direction had a positive and direct relationship with the honey production index. Conversely, the number of migrations, light livestock grazing with bees, and type of ownership had a negative and inverse relationship with the honey production index.
Conclusion: Natural factors were found to have a greater impact on honey production compared to management factors in the study region. To increase honey production, it is recommended for beekeepers to enhance their technical efficiency and knowledge through training and extension programs. They should establish hives in rangelands with suitable vegetation percentage and attractive species for bees, consider rainfall and the availability of healthy water resources, and carefully time hive migrations. Understanding the ecological factors and indicators accurately and implementing proper management strategies can potentially increase honey production by 17% in the region.
Methodology: Thirteen natural indicators and sixteen management indicators affecting honey production were selected as independent variables using a Likert scale questionnaire. Honey production index was used as the dependent variable. A sample of 67 beekeepers was randomly selected from a population of 81, based on Cochran's formula. Questionnaire validity was assessed by professors and experts, and reliability was measured using Cronbach's alpha statistic.
Results: Statistical analysis using rank mean test in SPSS software revealed that the percentage of nectar-producing and pollinating species had the highest rank (3.14) among the natural indicators, followed by the duration of the flowering period (3.01). Among the management indicators, the type of nutrition consumed by bees ranked first (3.05), followed by the existence of water resources (2.97). Spearman correlation coefficient indicated a positive and significant correlation (99% confidence level) between natural and management indicators. Additionally, Spearman's correlation coefficient and Kendall's tau-b showed a positive and significant correlation (99% confidence level) between natural and management indicators. The percentage of nectar-producing and pollinating species, length of the flowering period, amount of rainfall, cloudiness, pasture condition, and slope direction had a positive and direct relationship with the honey production index. Conversely, the number of migrations, light livestock grazing with bees, and type of ownership had a negative and inverse relationship with the honey production index.
Conclusion: Natural factors were found to have a greater impact on honey production compared to management factors in the study region. To increase honey production, it is recommended for beekeepers to enhance their technical efficiency and knowledge through training and extension programs. They should establish hives in rangelands with suitable vegetation percentage and attractive species for bees, consider rainfall and the availability of healthy water resources, and carefully time hive migrations. Understanding the ecological factors and indicators accurately and implementing proper management strategies can potentially increase honey production by 17% in the region.
Type of Study: Applicable |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2023/03/28 | Accepted: 2023/08/7 | Published: 2023/09/1
Received: 2023/03/28 | Accepted: 2023/08/7 | Published: 2023/09/1
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