Optimization of Protein Feed Fermentation Process for Supplementation of Apis Mellifera Honeybees

Abstract

<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:p>An alternative to natural food shortage for honeybees is the provision of supplements. The objective of this research was to develop a method with ideal conditions for the fermentation of a protein supplement for honeybees. The microorganisms used were <jats:italic>Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria</jats:italic> and <jats:italic>Saccharomyces</jats:italic> and the inulin prebiotic. There was an increase in lactic acid and a decrease in pH over a five-day fermentation period. The amount of acid bacteria present was 108–109 CFU/g of supplement. In the first phase the temperature and the humidity had significantly affected the fermentation but the variables inulin and probiotic didn’t. In the second phase, the lower temperatures and higher humidity produced the best effects on the fermentative responses. It was concluded that an ideal environment with temperature, humidity, inulin and probiotics could be created which allowed the fermentation of the protein supplement in five days obtaining final product fermentative characteristics close to bee bread.</jats:p>

Expression of MRJP3 and HSP70 mRNA Levels in Apis mellifera L. Workers after Dietary Supplementation with Proteins, Prebiotics, and Probiotics

“…For feed, pollen (2 g), syrup (20 mL), basic protein feed (BPF) (3 g), protein feed with prebiotics and probiotics (FPP) (3 g), and drinking water (30 mL) were used [ 15 , 21 ].…”