Swertia densifolia leaf extract as a dose-dependant attractant or repellent for Apis florea
Author(s)
D G Naik, Chitra Dandge and Hemalata Puntambekar
Abstract
Leaf extract of an Indian medicinal plant, Chirayata, Swertia densifolia (Griseb.) (Gentianaceae), known to show attractant and repellent properties towards Apis cerana, has been shown to possess similar properties towards Apis florea. Formulations of the extract in liquid paraffin at concentrations of up to 125 mg/ml were repellent and those at higher concentrations were attractant. Beekeepers might be able to develop lures or repellent formulations based on these findings.
