Development of a Vegetation Sub-Model for Rangeland Suitability Assessment in Apiculture

Background and Objective: This study aims to assess the usability of the rangelands in the Taleghan watershed for beekeeping and to develop a model for evaluating rangeland suitability in this regard. Beekeeping, as a sustainable agricultural activity, not only provides income but also plays an important role in preserving natural resources and reducing grazing pressure on rangelands. Identifying suitable areas for beekeeping and precisely analyzing plant phenology, particularly their flowering periods, are among the key criteria for planning the sustainable development of this industry.
Materials and Methods: The research methodology involved random sampling across different vegetation types. To this end, 30 one-square-meter plots were established along three 200-meter transects. Rangeland suitability assessment was conducted based on the framework proposed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, 1991) as a general model. Subsequently, local knowledge and expert insights were incorporated to accurately analyze the factors influencing vegetation suitability for beekeeping. Key vegetation suitability factors were reviewed, and the final suitability map was generated. These factors included flowering duration, composition of nectar- and pollen-producing plants, presence of bee-attracting plants, and appeal of the specific plant species to honeybees.
Results: The vegetation cover sub-model was defined based on four key criteria: Presence or absence of nectar-producing and pollen-producing plants, percentage composition of nectariferous and polliniferous species relative to the total rangeland vegetation, plant attractiveness classifications, and flowering duration of nectariferous and polliniferous species. The research findings indicated that 80 plant species in the study area serve as forage sources for honeybees. These species vary in attractiveness, nectar or pollen production characteristics, and flowering duration, placing them into distinct ecological classifications. The dominant vegetation of the region’s degraded rangelands consists of these species, which are highly significant for apiculture and represent a potential ecological and economic resource for regional development. The final suitability map analysis revealed that approximately 21% of the study area possesses excellent to good suitability for beekeeping.
Conclusion: The findings emphasize the necessity of sustainable natural resources management and optimal rangeland utilization, offering valuable insights for regional policymaking. Furthermore, field research results suggest that raising awareness among local communities about the benefits of beekeeping can lead to reduced dependency on livestock farming and more sustainable use of rangelands. Additionally, these results can serve as a foundation for regional policymaking and development of support strategies for expanding beekeeping while conserving natural ecosystems. Considering ecological conditions and adopting integrated suitability evaluation models will be an effective step toward enhancing the beekeeping industry and efficiently managing natural resources.