Effects of giant fennel (Ferula communis L.) on some performance traits in honey bees during supplementary feeding period

This study was carried out to determine the effects of seeds and roots of giant fennel (Ferula communis L.) on some performance characteristics of Apis mellifera caucasia L. colonies. Equalized colonies were distributed with 4 colonies for each group. In the study, 5 groups were arranged, and only syrup was given to the control group. On the other hand, 0.1% and 0.2% levels of root and seed of giant fennel were added to the syrup in the experimental groups. Measurements were made at 21-day intervals in the experiment. At the end of the experiment, supplemental feeding by adding fennel seeds and roots to the syrup provided a statistically significant increase in the number of bee frames, hive weight, nectar flow weight gain, and honey yield. Although the use of seed and root at the levels of 0.1% and 0.2% did not make a difference in these parameters, the use of the 0.2% level of seed had a more positive effect than the level of 0.1%. Usage of giant fennel seed and root increased total antioxidant status, total oxidant status, and oxidative stress index in honey according to the control group. The total antioxidant status in honey was increased statistically with the usage of 0.1% fennel seed. As a result of this study, it was concluded that the brood production and honey yield in honey bees and the antioxidant status in honey can be increased with the use of fennel seed and root, especially at the level of 0.2%, in supplementary feeding.