Entomological Investigation of Bee Diversity in Honey Production Communities in Muri Hills, Taraba State, North East Nigeria

Honey production is a growing agribusiness enterprise in upland communities of Taraba State, with beekeepers in the Muri Hills area producing honey valued both locally and for distant markets. Understanding the diversity of bees present in this landscape is essential for improving honey quality and yield. This study investigates bee species diversity and their foraging associations in Muri Hills communities of Taraba State. Transect sampling using net collections and pan trapping with blue, yellow, and white bowls will be deployed at six sites representing different vegetation types over eight months. Bees will be identified to genus and species level using current West African Apoidea keys. Pollen load analysis from captured specimens will indicate forage plants. Community composition will be analyzed using clustering techniques to identify habitat-specific bee assemblages. The study will assess whether proximity to existing apiaries influences wild bee diversity and whether the area can support expanded commercial beekeeping. Findings will be shared with Taraba State beekeeping cooperatives and the Taraba State Agricultural Development Programme as part of value chain development efforts. Keywords: bee diversity, Apoidea, honey production, Muri Hills, Taraba State