Morphometric characteristics of Ukrainian steppe bees depending on the method of controlled queen mating

Bee breed is an important factor in determining bee family development and productivity, as it affects honey production, disease resistance, climate adaptation, behaviour characteristics. The purpose of the study was to establish relationship between methods mating queens morphological characteristics bees Ukrainian steppe productive indicators colonies. To conduct research, 43 colonies with queen sisters mated by different natural were established Vinnytsia oblast. According results mating, there 22 control group, 21 experimental group. first group a normal way without any restrictions. under time space control. Based on integrity colony its features established. Thus, families have degrees belonging breed, – 59% 87.2% (p < 0.001). cubital index, advantage 8.2% 0.001) favour best hantel index observed which controlled space, difference 3.32% In where uncontrolled performed, more found for discoid displacement excess standard indicator breed. Families stronger 14.5% compared They provided 41.9% honey, built 22.1% honeycombs 0.01), need Kandy feeding 31.8% less addition, had pronounced hygienic required labour costs. practical significance lies possibility establishing patterns action factors particular confirms implement breeding programmes beekeeping