Application of Geo-spatial Technology in Characterization of African Honeybee (Apis mellifera) Apiaries into Ecosystem Zones for Productivity and Pollination Service

Seven major ecological zones of Nigeria with modern functional apiaries were mapped and sampled in the rainy season between April 2016 October 2018 for estimating bee foraging flight range floral species diversity; collating satellite imagery data geospatial zone mapping using GPS (Garmin Etrex 20) to capture coordinates locations their attributes, climatic topographic generating zones: wetland vegetation, savanna grassland, woodland (disturbed), shrubby forest, lowland dense Highland rain forest. Honeybee ranges 1 5 kilometer radius from where bees at can forage pollen nectar. Igbeti/Malete/Buari forages similar ecosystems within this while those Saki Abuja have potentials different ranging high forests. (woodland forest zones) produces average 32 liters honey per hive Kwara (savanna grassland wood land Savanna) 24 hive. There is also structural variation diversity richness as marginally differed locations. Highest index was observed Orozo (H=2.62; Margalef = 3.05) Agbungburu (H=2.54; 3.06). Low attained Buari (H= 2.10; Margalef= 2.32) Igbeti 2.11; 2.62). Apiary managers farmers acquiring relevant knowledge on apiculture prevailing A. mellifera would assist management activities; contribute better production pollination food security.