Influence of weather parameters on pollinators in cashew (Anacardium occidentale Linn.)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/jefa.2026.21.1.11Keywords:
Cashew, honey bee, pollinator, weather, foraging behavior, climate.Abstract
Pollinators are essential for successful cashew production, as the crop largely depends on insect-mediated pollination. Yet, the cashew productivity remains suboptimal due to inadequate pollination. The present study, conducted at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pilicode, aimed to document the foraging behaviour of cashew pollinators in relation to key weather parameters such as temperature, humidity, sunshine duration, wind speed, and rainfall. Results revealed that the foraging activity of major pollinators was significantly affected by these weather variables. Apis cerana indica and Tetragonula sp. were more active under cool, humid, and calm conditions, while Lasioglossum sp. and Hoplonomia sp. exhibited greater activity in warmer, drier, and windier environments, indicating higher thermal tolerance.
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