Comparative Analysis of Colony Performance and Profit from Different Beehive Types in Southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

The sole purpose of a hive is to encourage the bees to build their nests in such a way that it is easy to manage and maintain them. This study examined four beehive types: namely improved frame hive (Zander model), Kenya Top Bar Hive (KTB), Ethio-ribrab hive and traditional log hives based on honey yield performance, honeybee colony strength and profitability under environmental condition of Bonga, southwest Ethiopia. The overall average annual honey yield performance clearly revealed both improved frame hive (30.09 ± 2.69 kg/hive) and Ethio-ribrab hive (29.22 ± 2.69 kg/hive) were significantly higher (p < 0.0001) than KTB hive (15.71 ± 2.22 kg/hive) and traditional log hive (15.36 ± 0.86 kg/hive). In addition, the strength of honeybee colonies in the present study found to be higher in improved frame hive and Ethio-ribrab hive but medium in KTB hive and Traditional log hive. The total cost of production and gross return of improved frame hive was higher than Ethio-ribrab, KTB hive and traditional log hives. However, Ethio-ribrab hive stands first in profitability followed by improved frame hive compared to KTB and traditional log hive types. The study result could be useful in humid and sub-humid areas of the country, therefore, introduction of both improved frame hive and Ethio-ribrab hives is recommended along with all packages important to beekeepers.