Beekeeping
A.Y. 2026/2027
Learning objectives
Gain a detailed understanding of the anatomy, physiology and development of Apis mellifera, with a focus on domestic and wild species. Study the social and individual behaviour of bees, analysing mechanisms of communication, nectar gathering, defence and hive dynamics. Learn modern hive management techniques and identify the main threats to beekeeping, including pests, diseases and environmental factors, and develop effective mitigation strategies. Know the production techniques and characteristics of different bee products.
Expected learning outcomes
The curriculum will equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles underpinning apicultural management, enabling them to engage with this professional activity in a more informed manner. In particular, the student will be able to identify the primary issues affecting bee health and implement strategies for prevention and treatment. Additionally, they will acquire expertise in beekeeping production techniques, focusing on critical points of production. Furthermore, they will develop proficiency in observing bee behaviour, equipping them with the ability to apply this knowledge in management and conservation contexts.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Introduction to apidology, Systematic position and subdivision of Apoidea. Bombus spp. cycle, ethology and use. Relations between higher plants and Apoidea. Species of the genus Apis, Apis mellifera and its races. Morphology, anatomy and physiology of the bee. Mating, reproduction; amphigony, parthenogenesis. Postembryonic development. Sex and caste determinism. Organisation of bee society. Annual cycle. Swarming. Work of worker bees. Orientation and language. Thermoregulation. Breeding techniques. Equipment, work calendar, blooms. Legislation - Organisations - Technical assistance in beekeeping. Productions: - Honey; pollen; royal jelly; propolis; wax; poison (hints of apitherapy); - Breeding, analysis and selection of queen bees, swarm production. Pathologies: - nosemiasis, amebiasis, black disease, virosis, European foulbrood, American foulbrood, sackbrood, mycosis; Enemies Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella, Braula coeca, Acarapis woodi; Varroa destructor, Vespa velutina, Aethina tumida. Colony collapse disorder
Prerequisites for admission
Students need to have knowledge of biology. Further basic Knowledge are the ones on agricultural entomology and on the morfology and anatomy of insects
Teaching methods
Lectures will be held in person according to the published schedule. Laboratory practicals and field visits to apiaries and other beekeeping-related settings constitute an integral part of the course and provide essential opportunities for the practical application of the theoretical knowledge acquired during the program. Information regarding course organization, supplementary teaching materials, and any other educational updates will be available on the course ARIEL website; students are therefore strongly encouraged to consult it regularly.
Teaching Resources
in addition to the material made available to students on my ariel platform (pdf, videolessons, videos), study of the volume is recommended: A. Contessi Le api. Biologia, allevamento, prodotti Edagricole, Bologna, 2016
Assessment methods and Criteria
The exam will take place in oral form and will be marked out of 30.
In particular, the exam will focus on:
- ascertaining whether the learning objectives have been achieved in terms of knowledge and understanding;
- verifying students' knowledge of the various topics covered in the course, including bee systematics, anatomy and physiology, beekeeping practice, and the control of bee diseases and parasites.
Ascertain the mastery of entomological and beekeeping terminology.
Students with Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD) or disability certifications are kindly requested to contact the teacher at least 15 days before the exam date to arrange individual requirements. When sending this email, please cc in the relevant offices: [email protected] for students with SLD or [email protected] for students with disabilities.
In particular, the exam will focus on:
- ascertaining whether the learning objectives have been achieved in terms of knowledge and understanding;
- verifying students' knowledge of the various topics covered in the course, including bee systematics, anatomy and physiology, beekeeping practice, and the control of bee diseases and parasites.
Ascertain the mastery of entomological and beekeeping terminology.
Students with Specific Learning Difficulties (SLD) or disability certifications are kindly requested to contact the teacher at least 15 days before the exam date to arrange individual requirements. When sending this email, please cc in the relevant offices: [email protected] for students with SLD or [email protected] for students with disabilities.
AGR/11 - GENERAL AND APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY - University credits: 4
Field activity: 12 hours
Exercises: 4 hours
Lessons: 24 hours
Exercises: 4 hours
Lessons: 24 hours
Professor:
Lupi Daniela
Shifts:
Turno
Professor:
Lupi DanielaProfessor(s)
Reception:
upon appointment throug e.mail
in my office/online