The most commonly maintained species of bee by bee keepers is

Options

A. Apis dorsata
B. Apis mellifera
C. Apis indica
D. Apis florea

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Identify the Question**: The question asks for the most commonly maintained species of bee by beekeepers.

2. **Consider Common Bee Species**: There are several species of bees that are commonly known and maintained by beekeepers. The most notable ones include:
- Apis indica (Indian bee)
- Apis mellifera (Italian bee)
- Apis dorsata (Rock bee)
- Apis florea (Little bee)

3. **Analyze Each Species**:
- **Apis indica**: Known as the Indian bee, it is widely found in India and is commonly reared by local beekeepers.
- **Apis mellifera**: This species is also popular and known as the Italian bee, often kept in various parts of the world, including domestic settings.
- **Apis dorsata**: Known as the rock bee, it is less commonly maintained in hives compared to the previous two.
- **Apis florea**: Known as the little bee, it is also not as commonly maintained as the Indian bee.

4. **Determine the Most Commonly Maintained Species**: Based on the analysis, Apis indica (Indian bee) is the most commonly maintained species by beekeepers in India.

5. **Conclude the Answer**: Therefore, the answer to the question is Apis indica.

**Final Answer**: The most commonly maintained species of bee by beekeepers is **Apis indica**.

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