Reviving the Cypriot native bee: An innovative collaboration for preserving and identifying the subspecies

The Cyprus University of Technology (CUT), through the Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnology led by Professor Dimitris Tsaltas, has launched a new collaboration with M.F. Oros Maxaira Ltd — the family business behind the Cypriot honey brand Oros Machaira.

The initiative aims to develop a protocol for distinguishing the native Cypriot bee (Apis mellifera cypria) from other populations. The research is being carried out within the framework of the CYpria project under the guidance of the postdoctoral researcher Dr Mamantia Konstantinou and is funded by the InnoVouchers programme (INNOVOUCHERS/0524/0166) of the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF).

This innovative collaboration aims to preserve this unique subspecies (Apis mellifera cypria), contributing at the same time to the protection and promotion of the authenticity and quality of Cypriot honey.

The Cypriot bee is threatened with extinction due to hybridisation and human interventions, even though it is adapted to the local environmental conditions. As a result, the creation of a scientifically documented identification method becomes necessary. The identification protocol being developed will give local beekeepers the necessary tools for the protection and promotion of the Cypriot bee, while at the same time strengthening the sustainability of its population and the production of quality, locally produced honey.

This collaboration reflects the commitment of all the partners to the preservation of biodiversity, sustainable beekeeping and the protection of the natural heritage of Cyprus.

For more information you can contact Professor Dimitris Tsaltas at dimitris.tsaltas@cut.ac.cy or at 25002545.

With the funding of:

With the support of: