KNOWLEDGE OF NATIVE STINGLESS BEES AMONG THE LACANDON MAYA OF METZABOK, CHIAPAS, MEXICO

Abstract

The current Lacandon Maya of Metzabok have inhabited the Lacandon rainforest for three centuries. During this time, they have managed the natural resources of the area, including bees. This research records the species of stingless bees that people know in three age categories: from 17 to 30 years old; from 31 to 50 years old; and from 51 to 77 years old. Fieldwork was done from August 2019 to March 2020 and from June to December 2021. A survey was applied to 28 of the 30 heads of household. At the same time, entomological collections were made with key collaborators. In total, 12 species of bees were recorded. Nonetheless honey is commonly extracted from only four species of bees: Cephalotrigona zexmeniae (K’anit), Melipona solani (Jach k’ojo’), Scaptotrigona pectoralis (Kan sak) and Tetragonisca angustula (Yus). Currently five species of stingless bees are handled, which can reach up to eight. For this purpose, a comprehensive strategy is recommended so that complementing the knowledge generated in scientific research with local knowledge, will not only favor the economy, but also the environment.