Molecular Entomology, 2025, Vol.16, No.1, 1-10 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/me 6 5.2 Comparison of colonies with and without high-protein diet Colonies supplemented with high-protein diets showed significant differences compared to those without such supplementation. Colonies receiving protein feeds demonstrated higher brood rearing efficiency, increased adult bee populations, and improved overall colony strength. For instance, colonies fed with a diet containing 23% crude protein exhibited larger mandibular glands and higher secretory cell heights, indicating better nutritional status (Camilli et al., 2021). Additionally, colonies provided with natural forage had lower pathogen loads and higher overwinter survival rates compared to those fed protein supplements (DeGrandi-Hoffman et al., 2015). In contrast, unsupplemented colonies or those given only sugar syrup showed reduced brood rearing and lower adult bee populations (Blagov and Kolchaeva, 2022). 5.3 Results and observations The results indicated that high-protein diets positively influenced colony health and productivity. Colonies fed with protein supplements had higher vitellogenin (Vg) levels, which are crucial for overwintering success and overall colony health (Sarioğlu-Bozkurt et al., 2022). The study also observed that colonies receiving mixed pollen or specific high-protein pollen sources like Papaver somniferum had better wintering ability and longer in-vitro longevity (Topal et al., 2022). Furthermore, colonies supplemented with protein feeds showed enhanced drone reproductive quality, with increased drone weight and semen viability (Rousseau and Giovenazzo, 2016). However, it was noted that the type and quality of protein feed significantly affected the outcomes, with some feeds being more effective than others (Mortensen et al., 2018). 5.4 Implications of findings for feed optimization The findings underscore the importance of optimizing protein feed for honey bee colonies to enhance their health and productivity. High-protein diets, particularly those with balanced amino acid profiles and additional biologically active substances, can significantly improve colony strength and resilience against environmental stresses and pathogens (Tawfik et al., 2020). Beekeepers should consider incorporating high-quality protein supplements, especially during periods of pollen dearth, to support colony growth and sustainability. The study also highlights the potential benefits of natural forage over artificial supplements, suggesting that providing access to diverse and high-protein pollen sources could be a more effective strategy for maintaining colony health. 6 Challenges and Limitations in Bee Feed Optimization 6.1 Cost and accessibility of feed resources One of the primary challenges in bee feed optimization is the cost and accessibility of high-quality feed resources. Beekeepers often need to supplement natural forage with commercial pollen and nectar substitutes to maintain colony health, especially during periods of nutritional stress or habitat depletion (Mortensen et al., 2018; Branchiccela et al., 2019). However, the cost of these supplements can be prohibitive, and their availability may be limited, particularly in remote or economically disadvantaged areas. Additionally, the variability in the nutritional content of commercially available feeds can affect their efficacy, making it difficult for beekeepers to choose the best option for their colonies (Hoover et al., 2022). 6.2 Variability in environmental and floral conditions Environmental and floral conditions play a significant role in the success of bee feed optimization. The availability and quality of natural forage can vary widely depending on the season, weather, and landscape composition (Vaudo et al., 2015; Abi-Akar et al., 2020). For instance, colonies placed in areas with limited floral diversity or during off-peak flowering periods may suffer from nutritional stress, even with supplemental feeding (Branchiccela et al., 2019; Requier et al., 2019). This variability makes it challenging to standardize feeding practices and ensure consistent colony health across different environments. 6.3 Impact of pesticides and pollutants on bee nutrition Pesticides and pollutants present another significant limitation to bee feed optimization. Exposure to these chemicals can negatively impact bee health by reducing the nutritional quality of available forage and directly affecting bee physiology. Pesticides can alter the composition of royal jelly, a critical nutrient for developing
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