INTERREG Latvia-Lithuania programme 2021–2027 project "Latvian-Lithuanian Cooperation for Sustainable Beekeeping – Conservation and Support of the Western Dark Honey Bee (Apis mellifera mellifera) in the Baltic Sea Region (DARKBEE-NET)" agreement No. LL-00330
Project partners are Latvia University of Life dsciences and Technologies (leading partner), LSFRI 'Silava', Latvian Fund for Nature, Klaipėda University and Lithuanian State Research Institute 'Nature Research Centre'.
In the Latvia-Lithuania cross-border region, the native European dark honey bee (Apis mellifera mellifera) represents an important ecological and genetic resource for maintaining biodiversity, ecosystem resilience and sustainable beekeeping. However, its distribution, genetic integrity and long-term viability have not yet been sufficiently assessed or managed in a coordinated manner across national borders, highlighting the need for joint, scientifically sound approaches. To address this shared challenge, the study brings together research institutions and key stakeholders from Latvia and Lithuania to develop and implement coordinated solutions for the conservation and sustainable use of the European dark honey bee.
The main expected results of the study include the development of harmonised methodologies for sampling, identification and population status assessment, ensuring comparable data and a shared evidence base for decision-making. These methods will enable the identification and mapping of dark honey bee populations and conservation areas. In parallel, pilot activities will support the establishment of a network of conservation apiaries and practical breeding initiatives to strengthen local dark honey bee genetic resources. The study will also generate evidence on the links between dark honey bee genetics, local biodiversity and the quality of beekeeping products.
Communication and stakeholder engagement activities will ensure that the study results are adopted in practice and continue to be used sustainably beyond the project's completion, fostering long-term cross-border cooperation and biodiversity conservation.