Biogeographical distribution of the main melliferous flora of Algeria through the pollen profile of honey

Collecting information on melliferous plants is crucial to the development of beekeeping, and melissopalynological analysis reveals the sources of nectar and pollen that are used and appreciated by honeybees. The diversity of Algeria's bioclimatic regions and the flora biodiversity offer the possibility to produce a wide range of honey types, however more studies are needed to show this great variability. This study focused on the use of palynology to investigate pollen spectra of honey samples and thus identify plant resources for honeybees. A total of 151 pollen types belonging to 63 families were identified using light microscope in 138 honey samples collected in selected regions of Algeria. The study revealed 17 major plants being dominant (more than 45% of pollen spectrum) in the honey samples. Seven main beekeeping regions based on their floral and ecological characteristics were described according to main honey resources. These findings can be used to guide the optimal use of floral resources by bees in each region.