Alison during Lab Experiments

Conventional Research could yet again yield maximum results. A Research Study focusing on the diversity and distribution of honey bee species in the Equatorial Region of South Sudan has Apiculture at the heart of key investigations, lab testing and data analysis.

Lokiri Alison, an academic staff from the University of Juba is currently doing masters of Zoology at College of Natural Sciences (CONAS) Makerere University sponsored by the Adaptive Environmental Monitoring Network for East Africa (AdEMNEA) Project examines the distribution of honey bee species in different vegetation cover in the Equatorial Region.

More lab Tests and PCR

“Areas such as Terekeka, Kajo-keji and Yei. In central equatorial, Yambio, Nzara and Maridi in the Western equatorial, Magwi, Ikotos and Torit in the Eastern equatorial will be the study region of my research,” Lokiri revealed.

Currently, Lokiri has undertaken laboratory training for species identification, morphometric analysis, molecular analysis, DNA extraction, quantification, sequencing and species distribution. “I should be ready to go for field work and data collection in two weeks once the ultimate climatic conditions are achieved,” Lokiri added.

Alison attends a series of lab Preparatory Tests and Trainings.

Conforming to Alison’s research study, Dr. Deborah Amulen, a researcher and Principal Entomologist says the study will be one of those firsts in South Sudan to characterize bee species using molecular methods. “Upon completion Alison will return to his job at University of Juba with skills, knowledge to build on honeybee research agenda.” She added.

“Alison’s study is very important in understanding the species of South Sudan so that we can continue to assess their productivity and traits. It’s also one of those first studies in the region. Through AdEMNEA sponsorship, we also building the molecular skills of the candidate.” The Entomologist stressed.