BI1320, Bees, Apiculture and Pollination, 7.5 Hp
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Syllabus

Valid from : Spring semester 2026 (2026-01-19)

Level

First cycle (G1F)

Main field of study

Biology

Grading Scale

5 / 4 / 3 / U

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

English

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The course aims to provide basic knowledge about solitary bees and bumble bees taxonomy, biology and ecological role and basic knowledge of honeybees and beekeeping.

After completing the course the student is expected to

• master the use of keys for species determination of insects
• be able to determine solitary bees to family and common bumble bees to species
• understand the importance of insect mediated pollination
• be able to describe the ecological importance of social insects and the organisation of honey bee colonies
• be able to describe the genetic relationship between individuals in honey bee colonies and the sex determination system
• be able to perform common measures related to beekeeping practices

Content

The course contains lectures, excursions, project work and exercises in practical beekeeping.

The course deals with the evolution, biology and the ecological significance of pollinating Hymenopterans. Regarding solitary bees, the focus is on species determination and biology, regarding honey bees, the focus is on biology, economic significance and practical beekeeping. Discussions on pollination biology provide a link between solitary and social bees.

Topics that are covered during the course are:

• Evolutionary history, biology and taxonomy of pollinating Hymenoptera
• Evolution of sociality and the superorganism concept
• Pollination biology
  • The organisation of honey bee colonies including sex determination and reproduction
• Threats to pollinating insects
• Diseases and parasites of honey bees
• The importance of beekeeping and beekeeping practices

Compulsary parts include excursions, exercises and project work.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Passed written exam, approved reports of exercises and projects and participation in compulsory parts.

•  If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.
• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Ecology

Supplementary information

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Single module	7.5	0101

The Course Replaces

BI1203

Other Information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.
• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.