Importance of Caatinga biome for the for the subsistence of beekeeping agroecosystem in Bahia

Abstract

Beekeeping can be considered an important agribusiness for ecologically based family production
systems. Since it guarantees the pollination of crops, food production for the family,
inclusion and profit generation, as well as the conservation and diversification of species in
the environment. The objective of this research was to evaluate the impact of beekeeping on
agroecosystems of apicultural production in the Caatinga and Atlantic forest areas, in Bahia
state. Where, the production of honey from 38 cities in Bahia was investigated. It was verified
that the highest honey production among the studied biomes occurred in the Caatinga, although
this included only 14 out of 38 cities studied. This demonstrates the importance of this
biome, which despite rainfall limitations, producers obtain approximately four times as much
honey when compared to honey production in the Atlantic Forest area. This study shows the
importance of the Caatinga biome for beekeeping, and the importance of conservation of this
biome. Which in addition to environmental benefits, demonstrates a great beekeeping potential.
This can help reduce the rural exodus in this area by guaranteeing subsistence for the local
producers.