hi,

I am a marine biologist, specialising in mangrove ecology who knows virtually nothing about bees.  I am currently working on a project to rehabilitate the last remaining large stand of mangroves on the island of Java.  Aside from planting trees we are also looking for alternative income generating schemes for villagers to try and take the pressure off the mangrove resources. One potential alternative is beekeeping, as I have found a few references that suggest several mangrove species, Avicennia alba, Sonneratia caseolaris are suitable sources of honey, and that production of honey from mangroves is successful in places like the Sundarbans.  Searches of the web and the meagre literature available here have so far failed to turn up more specific information in respect of setting up hives in order to take advantage of mangroves.  local people here do not keep bees, and when I have asked why they have said it is too windy?? I would appreciate any advice or information list members could provide on the issue of honey production from mangroves.

Dr Russell Hanley
Mangrove specialist
Segara Anakan Conservation and Development Project