author(s)
Mulualem Ambaw and Mezgeb Workiye

abstract
The experiment was done to evaluate the role of honey bees (Apis mellifera) on seed yield and yield related components of alfalfa (Medicago sativa FL77). Experimental plots (3x4m) were assigned in a randomized complete block design with three treatment and replications. Alfalfa seed yields were significantly varied among the three treatments at p< 0.05). The mean seed yield of alfalfa obtained from the plots caged with honey bee pollination was higher (167.5±21.8kg ha^-1) followed by plots left open field to be pollinated by all potential pollinators under natural condition (70±3.5 kg ha^-1). The thousand seed weight was also significantly varied at (p< 0.05) among the three treatments. Quality seed was obtained from alfalfa plot caged with honey bee colony compared with the remaining treatments. There for honey bees play significant role for both seed yield and quality of alfalfa pollination. Attention should be given for the safety of the honey bees during application of agrochemicals.