The role of acacia and eucalypt plantations for honey production.

Abstract

Large areas of land in South East Asia are being planted to Acacia and Eucalyptus spp. for timber, paper and pulp production. The potential of these plantings for honey production has not been evaluated, although a number of these species are attractive to bees, Acacia spp. providing pollen and Eucalyptus spp. nectar. A management system for honey production incorporating plantations of these species is presented, and the role of bees in pollination is discussed.