BEEKEEPING PRODUCTION AS A SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC ALTERNATIVE FOR USERS FROM THE CHAME MANGROVE, PANAMA

Abstract

Beekeeping is an ecological and economically sustainable production alternative to preserve biodiversity in different productive agroecosystems. However, mangroves are ecosystems that are vulnerable to human actions, threatening their sustainability and ecosystem services. In response to mangrove degradation, ecological alternatives that benefit restoration and sustainable production in these ecosystems are needed. The aim of this work was to strengthen beekeeping production capacities for the diversification and sustainable use of mangrove forests and to improve the economy of users in Chame Bay. Ten beekeepers belonging to the group of producers Defensores Unidos por el Manglar de Sajalices (DEUMSA) were trained in the technical management of the apiary, where the beekeepers learned about honey production, inspection, feeding, pest, and disease control, and harvesting. Through field training, the producers were able to increase their average production from 11.75 to 27.52 kg of honey per hive in the mangrove. In conclusion, beekeeping can serve as an economic production alternative, reducing pressure on mangrove resources.