Nest architecture of stingless bee, Tetragonula iridipennis Smith from Assam, North East India

Aim: To study the nest architecture and nest components of Tetragonula iridipennis. Methodology: The nest architecture was observed for better understanding under AICRP on Honey Bees and Pollinators during 2021-22. The cumulative effects of seasonal variations on development of individual brood, pollen and honey areas were determined by One-way ANOVA. Results: The length and width of entrance tube varied from 25 to 30 mm and 15 to 20 mm. The average length and breadth of the brood cell was 3.75 mm and 2.55 mm, pollen pot was 7.14 mm and 6.68 mm and honey pots was 7.88±0.03 mm 6.56±0.04 mm, respectively. The results revealed that the highest total brood area (1386.47±42.63 cm sq.) was recorded in 15504 cc hive. Based on the observations, the hives 15504 cc and 14364 cc were considered to have the stronger colonies due to their larger brood areas in comparison to 6664 cc hive. Interpretation: Despite of stingless bees' significance, comprehensive studies particularly in Assam, are lacking. To address this gap, the nest architecture, components, and brood rearing activities of T. iridipennis was studied. Key words: Brood rearing activities, Nest architecture, Nest components, Pollinators, Tetragonula iridipennis