Characterization and typology of beekeeping systems: a case study in the district of Tamburco, Apurímac, Peru.

Introduction: Beekeeping in rural regions of Peru presents considerable heterogeneity in technification and productivity, which may limit its development. This study aimed to characterize beekeeping systems and identify producer typologies associated with productive characteristics in the district of Tamburco, Apurímac, Peru. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted using a census sample of 34 active beekeepers. Data were collected through a structured and validated questionnaire. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, exploratory hierarchical cluster analysis, association tests, correlation analysis, and complementary multivariate analyses based on FAMD and HCPC. Results: The multivariate analyses identified distinct beekeeper typologies that differed in production scale, educational level, technification, and access to training. Significant associations were observed between cluster structure and several productive and sociodemographic variables, while beekeeping experience was positively associated with production scale. Discussion: Overall, the identified typologies were primarily associated with differences in production scale, technological level, and access to training. These findings may help guide extension and training strategies for beekeepers in Tamburco. Given the relatively small sample size and the cross-sectional design, the findings should be interpreted as exploratory and require validation in larger and geographically diverse populations.