Diversity and Distribution of Bumblebees in Gorkha Region of Chitwan Annapurna Landscape (CHAL), Nepal
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Department of Zoology
Abstract
This study was conducted in the Gorkha region of Chitwan Annapurna Landscape (CHAL),
Nepal to explore the diversity and distribution of bumblebees. The fieldwork was carried
from May to September 2019 across the altitudinal gradient by following an accessible
walking trail. Bumblebee specimens were collected by using sweeping nets. Meanwhile,
the physical variables such as altitude, temperature, and humidity were also noted. Host
plants of collected bumblebees were also recorded. This study documented 12 Bombus
species belonging to 8 subgenera. B. haemorrhoidalis was the most abundant species
representing 30% of total species while B. pressus was the lowest abundant species
representing 1% of the total species. The highest diversity of bumblebees was found in
grassland (H=1.9585) while the lowest in the home garden (H=1.06086). Species richness
of bumblebees was found to be positively correlated with altitude and humidity while
negatively correlated with temperature. Similarly, bumblebees show significant effect
(p=0.00000225) in preferences with the host plant's family and color of the host plant with
significant effect (p=0.00124). This study has indicated that the diversity and distribution
of bumblebees are mainly affected by physical parameters, habitat type and families, and
color of the host plant.