Exploring bee colony dynamics: temperature and humidity monitoring as indicators of colony activity
Wojciech Staszewski
a:1:{s:5:"en_US";s:24:"AGH University of Krakow";}Abstract
Honeybee (Apis mellifera) colonies play a crucial role in supporting both ecological balance and agricultural productivity through their pollination activities. Understanding the internal conditions of a honeybee colony is essential for assessing its health, productivity, and seasonal behavior. In recent years, the concept of precision beekeeping has gained momentum, introducing digital tools and sensor-based methods to continuously monitor hive parameters without disturbing the bees. Temperature and humidity are two key physical variables that have been widely recognized as indicators of colony status. Monitoring these factors provides valuable insights into the hive’s internal microclimate, which can directly affect brood development, metabolism, and the colony's overall health.
Building upon this understanding, the present study focuses on the continuous monitoring of temperature and humidity both inside and outside the hive, as well as within the brood nest. The goal was to evaluate how the internal thermal dynamics of the hive reflect colony activity and environmental interactions. By tracking these parameters, we aim to explore their potential as non-invasive indicators of colony well-being. These data can help beekeepers better understand how environmental factors influence colony productivity and health, ultimately contributing to more effective management strategies.
Keywords:
Honeybee colony monitoring, Hive dynamics, Precision apiculture, Precision beekeeping, Smart beekeepingReferences
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