Role of Entomophily and Artificial Pollination in Enhancing Quality and Yield of Seed Onion (<i>Allium cepa</i> L.) in Indian Himalayas

Abstract Onion ( Allium cepa L.) is a highly cross pollinated crop that needs insect pollination (entomophily) for optimum seed set. In the present study, more than 120 species were noted to visit onion flowers, out of which fifty-nine collected through in-situ sampling technique and identified up level. The Indian bee Apis cerana indica ) was most abundant pollinator visiting flowers in study location. behaviour foraging activity A. c. assessed, pollen foragers observed be swift flyers significantly higher number per minute during peak flowering period spending less time flower (3 seconds) collect nectar from deep seated nectaries flowers. yield enhancement assessed entomophily artificial methods showed open recorded highest statistically, followed by mellifera However treatments, sponge puff high hectare percentage set umbel, camel brush, hand gloves (cloth) (rubber). conclusion, all treatments statistically significant on closed treatment concerning entire parameters calculated.