Bangalore, Jan 19: A million bees have colonized in a single banyan tree here.

The tree has the world’s largest number of beehives -- as many as 600.

It has become a centre of attraction for the curious onlookers at Ramagovindapura village near Nandagudi, where Special Economic Zone (SEZ) has been proposed.

The 200-years-old tree is a vital proof for social and environmental activists, who are against the setting up of SEZs fearing that such zones might disturb the ecological balance.

According to city’s well-known ornithologist and naturalist MB Krishna, the bees have colonized on a single tree because it is surrounded by forest area.

Since the bees travel far distances for collection of honey, the surrounding area also need to be protected from being disturbed.

“It’s a pride to protect the tree which has been a host to a record breaking 600 bee colonies. We would do our best to protect this natural heritage,” said Principal Chief Conservator of Forest and Wildlife IB Srivastava.

Uthanallappa, village head, said: “Because of these bee colonies the agricultural production has increased and we get five crops a year, which is rare”.

“Existence of such a large number of colonies on a single tree is a living testimony to the ecological and agricultural prosperity of the area, but we feel threatened by the SEZ proposal,” added Ananda, a villager.

Every year from October to November 600 bee colonies are found on this tree, but they start decreasing in March when the bees start vacating.

The bee colonies are making significant contribution to the socio-economic needs of the rural population, adding value to the economy. (ANI)