Marthandam Bee Box (Standard Beehive)

The Marthandam Bee Box is a traditional Indian beehive design widely used in South India for scientific beekeeping of Indian honey bees (Apis cerana). Developed and popularised through long‑standing field use, the Marthandam hive is known for its compact structure, ease of handling, and suitability for small to medium colonies.

Constructed using seasoned, beekeeping‑grade timber, the Marthandam bee box is designed to maintain proper bee space, supporting natural movement of bees, healthy brood development, and efficient food storage. The hive uses a movable frame system, allowing beekeepers to inspect colonies, manage brood, and harvest honey without damaging the comb.

Marthandam Bee Boxes are commonly used in farms, gardens, plantations, training centres, cooperatives, and government‑supported beekeeping programs, especially where Apis cerana is preferred.

Key Features

• Marthandam‑type wooden bee box
• Designed for Indian honey bees (Apis cerana)
• Compact and easy‑to‑manage hive design
• Movable wooden frames for inspection and maintenance
• Suitable for Indian climatic conditions

Components

• Floor board
• Brood chamber with wooden frames (6 frames)
• Super chamber (6 frames)
• Top cover

Suitable For

• Indian beekeeping and apiary setup
• Small and medium‑scale beekeepers
• Government, SHG, and training institute supply
• Garden and agricultural pollination

Handling & Maintenance

• Requires basic beekeeping knowledge
• Regular inspection and seasonal management recommended
• Protective gear advised during handling

Important Information

• Bee box supplied without honeybee colony.
• Availability may vary based on production
• Installation should follow standard beekeeping practices