A recent study by Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal Pradesh, has highlighted the Eastern Himalaya as a major hotspot for pollinator diversity, documenting 63 bee species across Northeast India and identifying Arunachal Pradesh’s mountain ecosystems as critical habitats for several rare bee species.

Key Findings

• Researchers documented 63 bee species across Northeast India, highlighting the rich pollinator diversity of the region.
• Mountain ecosystems located above 1,000 metres recorded the highest diversity of bee species.
• Several rare and high-altitude pollinators, including the Giant Himalayan Honey Bee (Apis laboriosa), were identified.
• The study suggests that many pollinator species in Arunachal Pradesh may still remain undiscovered due to limited scientific exploration.
• The findings reinforce the Eastern Himalaya’s status as one of the world’s important biodiversity hotspots.

Why Are Bees Important?

Bees are among the most important pollinators, helping in the reproduction of flowering plants and agricultural crops.

Ecological Significance

• Bees support food security by pollinating fruits, vegetables, oilseeds, and other crops.
• They maintain ecosystem balance by facilitating plant reproduction and genetic diversity.
• Healthy pollinator populations contribute to forest regeneration and biodiversity conservation.
• Pollination services support both natural ecosystems and rural livelihoods.

About the Giant Himalayan Honey Bee

• Scientific Name: Apis laboriosa
• It is the world’s largest honey bee species.
• It inhabits high-altitude Himalayan cliffs and mountainous regions.
• It plays a crucial role in pollination of alpine and forest ecosystems.
• The species is known for producing wild Himalayan honey.

Conservation Importance

• Arunachal Pradesh lies within the Eastern Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot, recognised for exceptional species richness and endemism.
• Conservation of mountain ecosystems is essential for protecting pollinators, wildlife, and ecological stability.
• The findings support India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and ecosystem conservation efforts.

Exam Hook: Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding pollinators:

1. Bees play an important role in maintaining biodiversity through pollination.
2. The Giant Himalayan Honey Bee is found in high-altitude Himalayan ecosystems.
3. Pollinator decline can negatively affect agricultural productivity.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 1 only

Answer: (c) 1, 2 and 3

One-Line Wrap

The mountains of Arunachal Pradesh are emerging as critical refuges for pollinators, highlighting the ecological importance of the Eastern Himalaya in sustaining biodiversity and food security.