Flowering plants for Apis mellifera adansonii/scutellata (African bee) in Senegal, West Africa

This is a pilot of hopefully a larger project spearheaded by Megan Wannarka, an independent researcher and beekeeper based in Minnesota, United States. Her past work as a Peace Corps volunteer in West Africa allowed her to work first hand with farmers there to better understand their needs for appropriate technologies. For example, a simple plant identification manual for beekeepers, farmers and stake holders to understand which plants are beneficial for honey bees in the region.

12 languages are spoken throughout Senegal, creating a small hand held spiral bound laminated identification manual showing with examples of the bloom, seeds and fruit along with symbols identifying if the plant is a nectar, pollen or propolis source.

This guide is to be used by partners on the ground in Senegal (and possibly surrounding countries) to capture local names of plants. Capturing the local common names in as many languages as possible increases the usage of a printed document in the hands of locals.

Background of plant list: Through literature review and research documenting nectar, pollen, and propolis sources from world sources (i.e. Eva Crane) to location specific plants, trees and shrubs. If given bloom calendar information was provided also documented. Ongoing research into this topic of plant sources of honey, pollen, propolis, and honeydew for bees is important to educate public, farmers, and government in conserve, create and increase honey bee habitat. Through identification, seeds can be saved, cuttings taken and education on how to best propagate for location specific uses. Partnering with INaturalist allows local common names and bloom calendar to be captured and will vary based on region, usage and language needs to be taken into consideration.

Conversations have been had with Smithsonian's Encyclopedia of Life website and Peace Corps as well as Trees for the Future for further partnerships and funding. Further questions can be sent to Megan Wannarka at m.wannarka@gmail.com less ↑