Defensive Behavior and Morphometric Variation in Apis mellifera Colonies From Two Different Agro-Ecological Zones of North-Western Argentina

European lineages of Apis mellifera were first introduced into America for beekeeping purposes. A subsequent introduction and accidental release A. m. scutellata resulted in hybridization events that gave rise to Africanized populations rapidly spread throughout the continent. In Argentina, honey bees (AHBs) have been mostly detected northern regions territory, represent a valuable genetic resource selection stocks with advantageous characteristics beekeeping. The objective present study was profile bee colonies wild origin potential beneficial traits apiculture using morphological, molecular behavioral traits. Honey chosen evaluation located two different agro-ecological north-western Argentina (Tucumán province): Chaco Depressed Plain (Leales apiary) Piedmont (Famaillá apiary). Each apiary surveyed three times during 2017–2018 season (mid-season, wintertime, early spring) for: brood population, phoretic Varroa level defensive behavior (run, fly, sting, hang). At midpoint also characterized by morphometry (45 variables) mitochondrial haplotypes (COI–COII intergenic region). Apiaries studied showed similar patterns season, most monitored. However, significant variation parameters found between apiaries at evaluation. Twelve 45 morphometric variables differences apiaries. haplotype analysis revealed high representation African A4 A1 (91%) both Haplotype associated Multivariate analyses [principal component (PCA) principal coordinate (PCoA)] including explained 65.3% 48.1% (PCoA) variability observed components. Several “fly” mainly separation colonies. results from this point possible association adaptation differential conditions. We discuss how can be used preservation ecotypes regional breeding programs.