Beekeeping and honey bees: a conceptual framework for the classification of beekeeping management practices implemented in Europe

eekeeping is an important sector of the European agriculture generating employment and increasing incomes in rural areas. The role of the beekeeper is considered fundamental for maintaining the health status of a managed honey bee colony and, if intended, ensure its productivity. Several monitoring projects highlighted the direct and/or indirect role of the beekeeper for ensuring healthy honey bee colonies. However, a clear overview on the main actions carried out by beekeepers and their role for the successful management of honey bee colonies is missing. In this study, we aim at providing a generalized framework of classification for the Beekeeping Management Practices (BMPs) carried out by the European beekeepers and their influence on honey bees. Six BMPs were selected for their relevance at European level and their influence on a honey bee colony. Based on an extensive literature review each BMP was characterized in relation to i) the elements guiding their application, ii) the potential impacts on a honey bee colony and iii) the scenario-based variables that might influence their application and/or effectiveness. Knowledge gaps were filled through an Expert Knowledge Elicitation procedure. This work represents the first attempt to condense and further elaborate the knowledge available on the actions carried out by European beekeepers and quantify their influence on a honey bee colony. This work might support the development of realistic scenarios of beekeeping in Europe and the implementation of knowledge-based risk management actions.