Crop pollination by native honey bees (Apis cerana) at risk due to agricultural intensification

Abstract Agricultural intensification in Lao PDR has steadily increased, driving of natural habitats into intensively managed agricultural landscapes. However, its impact on native pollinators, particularly the Asian honey bee ( Apis cerana ), remains poorly understood. This study examined the effects of two contrasting agricultural systems: agroecology and conventional agriculture on A. cerana abundance in central Lao PDR. Surveys were conducted year-round across ten plots (30 × 50 m) separated by 3 km between the two landscapes. Results revealed that native honey bee abundance was significantly higher in agroecology than in conventional agriculture plots. Abundance also varied throughout the year, with peaks during January, June, July and August. Time of the day further influenced bee activity, with morning sampling yielding higher counts than afternoon. In addition, flowering plant abundance and richness were positively associated with A. cerana abundance, highlighting the importance of floral resources in shaping foraging dynamics. These findings demonstrate that agricultural practices, floral availability, and temporal factors collectively influence native honey bee populations. Promoting agroecological systems that sustain floral resources is therefore critical for supporting pollinator health and maintaining stable crop pollination services in Lao PDR.