Pollination ecology and crop yield: A review on the comparative efficiency of managed honey bees and wild pollinators in central India

Pollination represents one of the most critical ecosystem services supporting global agricultural productivity and food security. In Central India, where agriculture constitutes the backbone of rural livelihoods and supports over 42% of the population, understanding the comparative efficiency of managed honey bees (Apis mellifera and Apis cerana) versus wild pollinators is essential for optimizing crop yields and ensuring sustainable farming practices. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on pollination ecology in Central India, examining the relative contributions of managed and wild pollinators to crop production across diverse agroecosystems including intensive agricultural plains, forest-agriculture mosaics and mixed farming systems. The analysis reveals that while managed honey bees, particularly Apis mellifera, remain the primary focus of commercial pollination services due to their colony strength, manageability and higher honey yields, wild pollinators including stingless bees (Tetragonula iridipennis), carpenter bees (Xylocopa spp.), blue-banded bees (Amegilla spp.), leafcutter bees (Megachile spp.) and diverse solitary bee species contribute significantly to pollination networks and often demonstrate superior efficiency on a per-visit basis. Studies indicate that wild pollinators provide crucial insurance against pollination deficits during periods when managed colonies underperform due to disease, adverse weather conditions, or management issues. The economic value of pollination services in India has been estimated at Rs. 266.33 thousand crore annually (2021-22), representing approximately 8-10% of total crop output value, with oilseeds, fruits and vegetables showing the highest dependence on pollinator services. However, pollinator populations face mounting threats from habitat fragmentation, indiscriminate pesticide use particularly neonicotinoid insecticides, climate change-induced phenological mismatches and disease prevalence including Varroa destructor mites and viral infections. This review critically examines existing research gaps, methodological approaches for assessing pollinator efficiency, the interactive effects of managed and wild pollinators and the implications of pollinator decline for Central Indian agriculture. Future research priorities include long-term monitoring of pollinator communities using standardized protocols, evaluation of synergistic effects between managed and wild pollinators, development of pollinator-friendly agricultural practices including Integrated Pest and Pollinator Management (IPPM) strategies and policy interventions supporting sustainable pollination services. The findings underscore the urgent need for conservation initiatives that protect wild pollinator habitats while optimizing managed pollination services to ensure food security, nutritional adequacy and agricultural sustainability in Central India.