Abstract

Observations were made on 3 selected trees at each of 2 sites (Nilambur and Peechi) during the flowering period (April-May) in 1982-84. Preliminary results showed that insect activity was greater during the cooler morning hours (0800-1000 h) than during the rest of the day (until 1700 h) . Therefore, subsequent observations were made only at that time. Insect collections were made using a hand net. The specimens were examined microscopically to assess their comparative efficiency in carrying pollen. Seventeen species were identified, 13 from the order Hymenoptera, 2 Diptera and 2 Lepidoptera. The hymenopterans were the most frequent visitors, especially the solitary bees, Prosopis pratensis, Allodope marginata [Braunsapis marginata] and Halictus sp. No domestic bee species were observed. It is suggested that the possibility of enhancing pollination with domestic bee species be investigated