Cerana

Cerana is the species epithet used in the binomial name of the Asian honey bee, Apis cerana, a honey bee species in the genus Apis. It is native to Asia, with a distribution spanning the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of East Asia, including southern China, Korea, and Japan. The species has been introduced to some islands and regions outside its historic range for pollination and honey production. It is generally smaller than its western counterpart, Apis mellifera, and builds colonies in tree hollows, caves, or human-made structures.

Worker bees are smaller and the colony life cycles are adapted to seasonal nectar flows; swarming and queen replacement occur like other honey bees. Nests are often defended vigorously and use propolis to deter intruders; foraging specializes in nectar, pollen, and water. The honey produced is typically consumed within colonies or sold locally.

Apis cerana is an important pollinator for many crops and wild flowering plants in its range; it has faced threats from pests and diseases, particularly Varroa destructor. In Asia, A. cerana coevolved with varroa and some populations show natural resistance, although the mite has caused declines where found on or introduced to A. mellifera.

The species is typically not considered endangered, though habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and disease can reduce local populations.