The genetic integrity of the Maltese honeybee population is in notable “jeopardy”, a recent preliminary study has found.

The Medibees project’s, in collaboration with the Breeds of Origin Conservancy, preliminary findings indicate genetic introgression within the local honeybee population.

However, they’ve also identified “unique characteristics” setting the Maltese honeybee apart.

Moreover, these results are not conclusive, and the organisations highly recommend selective breeding as an approach to conservation.

This project aims to protect and conserve the Maltese honeybee and it has criticised the “lack of unified cooperation among stakeholders” saying that this poses a “serious threat” to the endemic subspecies, “making it an urgent issue that requires immediate attention”.

“Protecting the Maltese honeybee is vital for both our environment and cultural heritage.”

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