Nest architecture diagnosis of Oxytrigona tataira (Smith, 1863) (Hymenoptera: Meliponinae)

Abstract

The Oxytrigona tataira stingless bee, commonly known as "tataíra" or "caga-fogo" bee, is a widely distributed species in Brazil. It is known by its great defensive behavior that makes difficult its inclusion in stingless bee beekeeping projects. This fact reflects directly in the lack of interest for its conservation in the ecosystems, as well as in the shortage of studies regarding intrinsic biological aspects to this species. The aim of this work was to describe O. tataira nest architecture, besides supplying additional information related to its behavior. Information regarding the colony entrance; brood area; number, dimensions and arrangement of the combs; royal and worker rearing cells dimensions; pillars height; food area; dimensions and volume of the honey storage pots; dimensions of pollen storage pots; weight of the stored pollen mass; determination of honey humidity; and population estimation are presented.