Mexico operated at least 50,000 hives of honey bees from 1920 to 1960. Today, Adee Honey Farm in South Dakota, USA, (80,000 colonies) and Comvita in New Zealand (30,000+ colonies) are among the world's largest beekeeping enterprises. Worldwide, commercial beekeepers number about 5% of the individuals with bees but produce about 60% of the world's honey crop. Commercial beekeeping is on the rise, especially in high-value markets such as pollination in North America and honey production (especially Manuka honey) in New Zealand. Notable beekeepers Since Petro Prokopovych became the first major commercial beekeeper, there have been people along the way who have contributed to the success of keeping honey bees. From studying their genetics, to writing well-known novels, to constructing tools to assist in the industry, these beekeepers helped guide the profession. Petro Prokopovych Johann Dzierzon L. L. Langstroth Anton Janša Peter Pavel Glavar Émile Warré Brother Adam Moses Quinby Juraj Fándly Gregor Mendel Georges de Layens Robert A. Holekamp Charles Dadant Amos Root Walter T. Kelley Roger Morse Tarlton Rayment In popular culture Fashion Beekeeper fashion includes a protective suit to try to prevent injuries while working with the hives. Covering beekeepers from head to toe, the material, gloves, and veil contribute to the protection of the beekeeper. Fictional characters The profession of beekeeping has manifested itself into fictional characters within both literature and movies. Sherlock Holmes Practicing beekeepers Beekeeping continues to be a popular profession and hobby for people around the world. These well-known individuals have taken an interest. Jiří Dienstbier Jr. Gordon Dougan Edmund Hillary Martha Kearney Bob Maguire Terry Nutkins Nayef Rajoub Paul Theroux Bill Turnbull Steve Vai Alfred Watkins See also Agriculture Beekeeping by country Gardening Organic farming Sustainable agriculture References External links Canadian Honey Council British Beekeepers Association Animal husbandry occupations Beekeeping ja:養蜂家