Stingless Bee-Assisted Pollination Improves Yield and Oil Content in Oilseed Crops of Central India

Abstract

Oilseed crops form a critical component of agricultural economies, providing edible oils, industrial raw materials, and biofuel resources. This study investigated the diversity, phenology, and pollination ecology of twelve cultivated and five non-cultivated oilseed species in Gondia District, Maharashtra, India, with a particular focus on the role of stingless bees (Meliponini) in enhancing crop productivity. Phenological observations revealed staggered flowering and fruiting cycles among cultivated species such as Brassica campestris, Helianthus annuus, and Arachis hypogea, complemented by perennial tree species including Cocos nucifera and Azadirachta indica, further contributed to ecological stability and oilseed resource continuity. Controlled pollination experiments demonstrated that stingless bee pollination significantly enhanced pod and seed set, seed weight, and oil content in major crops such as sunflower, mustard, sesame, and groundnut. Comparative analyses revealed marked improvements in both seed yield and quality under stingless bee-assisted pollination relative to open pollination. These findings are consistent with previous studies demonstrating the positive impact of managed pollinators on Brassica and other oilseed species. The results highlight the complementary roles of honey bees, stingless bees, and wild pollinators in sustaining oilseed productivity. Promoting meliponiculture alongside apiculture offers a viable strategy for ecological intensification, yield stability, and climate-resilient agriculture. Incorporating stingless bee pollination into diversified farming systems can therefore contribute to both enhanced agricultural output and sustainable rural livelihoods.