Apis mellifera bee: importance, challenges, and its impact on agriculture in Peru

Abstract

Bees are fundamental to the health of both natural ecosystems and agricultural systems, providing essential pollination services that support biodiversity and agriculture. In Peru, they play an important role in pollinating major agricultural crops such as coffee, blueberries, avocados, citrus fruits, and cacao, among others; at the same time, they help preserve biodiversity. However, bee populations in the country face significant threats, including habitat loss driven by deforestation and agricultural expansion, the spread of parasitic pests like Varroa destructor, pesticide exposure, and the effects of climate change... This review synthesizes recent research on the state of bee populations and apiculture in Peru, drawing on a comprehensive dataset of 89 studies published between 1914 and 2024. It examines the key challenges facing Peruvian A. mellifera bee, including the impact of environmental stressors, the sustainability of beekeeping practices, and the regional distribution of research efforts. Additionally, the review explores the importance of grassland ecosystems as critical habitats for pollinators and their role in supporting agricultural productivity. The review identified significant knowledge gaps in Peru, including limited geographic coverage, insufficient understanding of pollination ecology and ecosystem services, and a lack of studies quantifying the economic value of pollination for agriculture. By identifying research gaps and proposing future directions, this article seeks to advocate for the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices in Peru to safeguard A. mellifera.