Melissopalynological studies in India: A review

Abstract

Melissopalynological study was an age old technique of examining honey samples for their pollen content and was of high research interest in Europe and US for a long time. In the present review study an attempt has been made to accumulate the research studies of melissopalynology in India which was started in early fifties converging to the recent advancements. The different studies from different parts of India explore major bee foraging plants of the studied regions with their seasonal variations. Apart from the pollen investigations some physicochemical parameters were also identified in Indian honey, though not sufficient level to establish a good quality control. The present review is also trying to demarcate the present status and scope in this research area to enhance the knowledge for apicultural market.