Introduction: The bee species Apis mellifera and Apis andreniformis are two of the most well-known bees. Apis mellifera is commonly known as the European honey bee, and Apis andreniformis is known as the black dwarf honey bee. Both species belong to the genus Apis and are part of the Apidae family. Hybridization between these two species results in a new hybrid species that has characteristics of both the parent species. Taxonomic Name: The hybrid offspring of Apis mellifera and Apis andreniformis is designated as Apis mellifera x Apis andreniformis. The hybrid species is known by the common name of "Dwarf Honey Bee Hybrid" or "Mixed Asian Honey Bee."
Physical Characteristics: The Dwarf Honey Bee Hybrid looks like both parent species mixed in one. They are generally smaller in size than Apis mellifera, but slightly larger than Apis andreniformis with a range of 5-10 millimeters in length. The body color of the hybrid bee ranges from dark to light brown stripes that alternate with black stripes, similar to the pattern of Apis andreniformis. The thorax is usually thicker and darker compared to the abdomen area. Behavioral Characteristics: Both Apis mellifera and Apis andreniformis are known for their aggression. The Dwarf Honey Bee Hybrid has been observed to have a more aggressive behavior than Apis mellifera but less aggressive than Apis andreniformis. As compared to the parent species, the hybrid has a shorter duration of flight, faster kinetics, and higher propensity to swarm.
Habitat and Distribution: The Dwarf Honey Bee Hybrid has been found in many regions around the world, primarily in Southeast Asia. This hybrid species can be found in forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas, where they build their nests and hives on trees, shrubs, and man-made structures. Conclusion: The Hybrid species of Apis mellifera x Apis andreniformis, also known as the Dwarf Honey Bee Hybrid, is a unique and fascinating species with characteristics of both parent species. Due to global transportation, the Hybrid species is becoming prevalent outside of its natural range. This hybrid species provides an exciting opportunity to study the effects of hybridization and genetic mixing on bee species.