Lifespan Elongation of Bombus terrestris and Economic Effect by Regular Pollen Supplement to Its Hives Released on Beefsteak-tomato Varieties
About 50,000 hives of Bombus terrestris are used for pollination of tomato and other economical crops (fruit vegetables and fruit trees) in Korea. Therefore this study was conducted to find out the effective use of B. terrestris and its economic effect in the major beefsteak-tomato cultivation areas from February to August in 2008. The pollinating activities, rate of bite-mark and lifespan of B. terrestris"s hive according to all beefsteak-tomato varieties (Super Momotaro, Zeus42, Mascara and Super Sunroad, 500 ㎡, 9,600~12,000plants) were apparent by regular supplement of pollen (5~6g/3 days) to the hive of B. terrestris. Especially, Super Momotaro and Super Sunroad variety were most distinctive in the effects by regular pollen supplement.