The effect of types of hives on honey production in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

This study compared the effectiveness of three different types of beehives (Kenyan top-bar, Langsthroth frame, and perforated mud-pot hives on honey production in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Parameters assessed in the study included the weight gained from bee occupation, honey yield, and monthly weight gain in the hives. The study was conducted over a period of six months, and the data collected were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and LSD was used to ascertain mean differentiation. The results obtained indicated that the Kenyan top-bar hive was the most effective hive in terms of weight gain (7.55±8.82 kg) from bee occupation, and monthly weight gain (3.18±3.06 kg). The Langsthroth frame hive was the second most effective with the highest honey yield (6.67±5.72 litres), while the perforated mud-pot hive was the least effective hive. Moreover, there was significant difference in honey yield between the three hives (p < 0.05) and the value gained from honey production using the Kenyan top-bar hive was almost four times its cost of production. The study, therefore recommends the Kenyan top-bar hive and Langstroth frame hive for beekeepers interested in maximizing their honey production.