Morphofunctional dynamics of hypopharyngeal glands of bees during the transition to the active season

Morphofunctional dynamics of hypopharyngeal (pharyngeal) glands of bees (Apis mellifera L.) of Central Russian breed were studied during the spring period from March 20 to June 15 using sequential morphometry and an integrated scoring system. A standardized sample (36 bees per sample, two subgroups of 18 individuals), light and electron microscopy, alkaline dissociation for alveolar counting and a developmental scoring system based on the Hess method were used. Statistically significant (p≥0.99; p≥0.999) data on the reconstruction of the secretory tissue were obtained: the average number of alveoli increased from 115.60 to 246.52 pcs., the length of alveoli - from 144.28 to 230.32 μm, the width - from 138.44 to 189.68 μm, the diameter of excretory duct - from 6.52 to 9.26 μm, the integral score of development - from 2.90 to 3.94. The most intensive increase was noted in the early spring period between March 20 and April 12. The results indicate a combination of hypertrophy and organizational increase in the secretory area, simultaneous expansion of the excretory ducts and high homogeneity of the sample (low coefficient of variability), which reflects the adaptation of families to the increasing need for royal jelly during intensive brood rearing. The novelty of research lies in the comprehensive quantitative study of the seasonal dynamics of hypopharyngeal glands at five fixed time points, taking into account organizational and technological factors of management. Obtained data have practical significance for optimizing feeding and veterinary-technological measures in apiaries.