Chromosomal diversity in Apis mellifera carnica from Serbia

Comparative chromosomal investigations of three honey bee ecotypes of A. m. carnica ( the Banat, the Timok and the Syenichko - Peshterski ecotype) from Serbia were performed. G-band analyses revealed differences between Timok and Banat honey bee ecotypes in chromosomes 2, 4, 11 and 13. Between the Timok and Syenichko - Peshterski ecotypes, differences were observed for chromosomes 1, 12, 15 and 16. The greatest differences in G- band number and distribution were registered between the Syenichko - Peshterski and Banat ecotypes in chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 11, 12, 13, 15 and 16. The results point to great interecotype variability of G- band pattern of chromosomes of the carniolan honey bee in Serbia. To preserve such honey bee diversity in Serbia, the three investigated ecotypes require attention for conservation.