Exploration of the Natural Habitat of Apis dorsata Forest Bees in the Samota Biosphere Reserve, Sumbawa: An Ecological Study and Vegetation Diversity

The Samota Biosphere Reserve, located on Moyo Island in Sumbawa, Indonesia, is a key ecological area, especially for the forest honey bee, Apis dorsata. This study investigated the natural habitat of A. dorsata and the factors influencing its nesting preferences within this reserve. A multidisciplinary approach, integrating field surveys, laboratory analysis, and geospatial technology, including Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, was used to identify the optimal nesting sites for A. dorsata. The study found that A. dorsata favors tall trees (≥15 meters) with open branches (inclination of 5°-25°), particularly species such as Ceylon Oak, Kapong, and Milkwood. These trees, characterized by a trunk diameter ≥30 cm, provided the most suitable nesting sites. Additionally, the elevation range of 50-300 meters above sea level was found to be critical for nest location. Forests with minimal human disturbance (such as roads or agricultural expansion) were prioritized. A GIS-based spatial analysis identified a total core habitat area of 2,993.03 hectares (29.93 km2), which currently meets the ecological requirements of the bee. These findings are essential for establishing conservation strategies for A. dorsata. The research highlights the importance of protecting forested areas, particularly those with the preferred tree species and suitable elevation ranges, to support bee populations. By preserving the integrity of the core habitat zones and minimizing human disturbances, this study provides actionable insights to ensure the long-term sustainability of A. dorsata populations within the Samota Biosphere Reserve, Sumbawa.