Environmental effects and Economic importance of Apis cerana in Korea

Forest Ecosystem of Korea gives good condition for managing Apis cerana. Its utility as pollinators has contributed enormously to the field of agriculture and forestry. Especially strawberry farming is heavily depertdent on Apis cerana as pollinators. The total number of Apis cerana colonies in 1998 is about 300,000 and their annual honey production reaches upto 500/MT. However average honey production per colony is somewhat low, 1.5-4.0 ㎏, thus it is imperative to find new honey plants for Apis cerana. On the other hand, regular and intensive education programs for honeybee keepers are needed to improve product quantity and quality.