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Search Results (399)

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Keywords = managed pollinators

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17 pages, 1728 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Colony Deployment Timing on Tetragonula carbonaria Crop Fidelity and Resource Use in Macadamia Orchards
by Claire E. Allison, James C. Makinson, Robert N. Spooner-Hart and James M. Cook
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2313; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152313 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 253
Abstract
Crop fidelity is a desirable trait for managed pollinators and is influenced by factors like competing forage sources and colony knowledge of the surrounding environment. In European honey bees (Apis mellifera L.), colonies deployed when the crop is flowering display the highest [...] Read more.
Crop fidelity is a desirable trait for managed pollinators and is influenced by factors like competing forage sources and colony knowledge of the surrounding environment. In European honey bees (Apis mellifera L.), colonies deployed when the crop is flowering display the highest fidelity. We tested for a similar outcome using a stingless bee species that is being increasingly used as a managed pollinator in Australian macadamia orchards. We observed Tetragonula carbonaria (Smith) colonies deployed in macadamia orchards at three time points: (1) before crop flowering (“permanent”), (2) early flowering (“early”), and (3) later in the flowering period (“later”). We captured returning pollen foragers weekly and estimated crop fidelity from the proportion of macadamia pollen they collected, using light microscopy. Pollen foraging activity was also assessed via weekly hive entrance filming. The early and later introduced colonies initially exhibited high fidelity, collecting more macadamia pollen than the permanent colonies. In most cases, the permanent colonies were already collecting diverse pollen species from the local environment and took longer to shift over to macadamia. Pollen diversity increased over time in all colonies, which was associated with an increase in the proportion of pollen foragers. Our results indicate that stingless bees can initially prioritize a mass-flowering crop, even when flowering levels are low, but that they subsequently reduce fidelity over time. Our findings will inform pollinator management strategies to help growers maximize returns from pollinator-dependent crops like macadamia. Full article
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21 pages, 1355 KiB  
Article
Nationwide Screening for Arthropod, Fungal, and Bacterial Pests and Pathogens of Honey Bees: Utilizing Environmental DNA from Honey Samples in Australia
by Gopika Bhasi, Gemma Zerna and Travis Beddoe
Insects 2025, 16(8), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16080764 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 364
Abstract
The European honey bee (Apis mellifera) significantly contributes to Australian agriculture, especially in honey production and the pollination of key crops. However, managed bee populations are declining due to pathogens, agrochemicals, poor forage, climate change, and habitat loss. Major threats include [...] Read more.
The European honey bee (Apis mellifera) significantly contributes to Australian agriculture, especially in honey production and the pollination of key crops. However, managed bee populations are declining due to pathogens, agrochemicals, poor forage, climate change, and habitat loss. Major threats include bacteria, fungi, mites, and pests. With the increasing demand for pollination and the movement of bee colonies, monitoring these threats is essential. It has been demonstrated that honey constitutes an easily accessible source of environmental DNA. Environmental DNA in honey comes from all organisms that either directly or indirectly aid in its production and those within the hive environments. In this study, we extracted eDNA from 135 honey samples and tested for the presence of DNA for seven key honey bee pathogens and pests—Paenibacillus larvae, Melissococcus plutonius (bacterial pathogens), Nosema apis, Nosema ceranae (microsporidian fungi), Ascosphaera apis (fungal pathogen), Aethina tumida, and Galleria mellonella (arthropod pests) by using end-point singleplex and multiplex PCR assays. N. ceranae emerged as the most prevalent pathogen, present in 57% of the samples. This was followed by the pests A. tumida (40%) and G. mellonella (37%), and the pathogens P. larvae (21%), N. apis (19%), and M. plutonius (18%). A. apis was detected in a smaller proportion of the samples, with a prevalence of 5%. Additionally, 19% of the samples tested negative for all pathogens and pests analysed. The data outlines essential information about the prevalence of significant arthropod, fungal, and bacterial pathogens and pests affecting honey bees in Australia, which is crucial for protecting the nation’s beekeeping industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Bee Parasite, Pathogen, and Predator Interactions)
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15 pages, 1097 KiB  
Article
Reduced Soil Moisture Decreases Nectar Sugar Resources Offered to Pollinators in the Popular White Mustard (Brassica alba L.) Crop: Experimental Evidence from Poland
by Bożena Denisow, Sławomir Michałek, Monika Strzałkowska-Abramek and Urszula Bronowicka-Mielniczuk
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6550; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146550 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 329
Abstract
Climate change can severely impact plant-pollinator interactions and have serious effects on ecosystem services such as pollination. This study was carried out in 2023 and 2024, and it examined the effects of drought on flowering and nectar production in one cultivar of white [...] Read more.
Climate change can severely impact plant-pollinator interactions and have serious effects on ecosystem services such as pollination. This study was carried out in 2023 and 2024, and it examined the effects of drought on flowering and nectar production in one cultivar of white mustard (Brassica alba cv. Palma), an important entomophilous crop of the temperate zone with several attributes that make it promising for sustainable agricultural practices. Drought-stressed plants delayed the flowering time, shortened the flowering duration, and developed significantly fewer flowers. Nectar production in white mustard depends on soil moisture levels and short-term changes in meteorological conditions (e.g., air humidity, air temperature). At reduced soil moisture, the total sugar yield per plant decreased by 60%, compared to control plants, resulting in lower availability of caloric food resources, which should be considered when developing strategies supporting pollinators. Changes in floral traits resulted in differences in the frequency of insect visits, which may exert a negative impact on white mustard pollination under drought stress and may have indirect consequences for seed yield resulting from increased drought intensity associated with climate change. The results provide important data for the management of the white mustard crop and indicate the need for broader evaluation of cultivars to promote drought-resistant B. alba cultivars. Full article
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22 pages, 6781 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Variation in Flower Traits, Visitor Traits, and Reproductive Success of Solanum sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae) in the Rarh Region of West Bengal, India
by Ujjwal Layek, Pappu Majhi, Alokesh Das, Prakash Karmakar and Arijit Kundu
Biology 2025, 14(7), 865; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14070865 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 821
Abstract
The wild tomato (Solanum sisymbriifolium) is a globally distributed shrubby weed with both negative and positive impacts, including its invasive properties and the potential for pharmaceutical and traditional medicinal uses. Despite its ecological significance, the plant’s reproductive biology and pollination ecology [...] Read more.
The wild tomato (Solanum sisymbriifolium) is a globally distributed shrubby weed with both negative and positive impacts, including its invasive properties and the potential for pharmaceutical and traditional medicinal uses. Despite its ecological significance, the plant’s reproductive biology and pollination ecology remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the floral biology, pollination ecology, and plant reproduction of the weed species. Some flower traits, such as flowering intensity, flower display size, and pollen and ovule production, peaked during spring, summer, and the monsoon, while flower longevity and stigmatic receptivity were the longest in winter. The plant species was self-compatible (ISI = 0.02), heavily depended on pollinators (IDP = 0.72), and experienced minimal pollination limitation (D = 0.10) under open-pollination conditions. Flower visitors’ traits (e.g., abundance, diversity, and richness) were higher in the spring, summer, and the monsoon, and these were lower in winter. The vital pollination service was provided by Amegilla zonata, Ceratina binghami, Lasioglossum cavernifrons, Nomia (Curvinomia) strigata, Tetragonula pagdeni, Xylocopa aestuans, Xylocopa amethystina, Xylocopa fenestrata, and Xylocopa latipes. Reproductive success, as indicated by fruit and seed set, varied seasonally, being higher during the spring–monsoon period and lower in winter. These findings support effective management of this weed species and help conserve the associated bee populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pollination Biology)
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21 pages, 15035 KiB  
Article
Birds, Bees, and Botany: Measuring Urban Biodiversity After Nature-Based Solutions Implementation
by Mónica Q. Pinto, Simone Varandas, Emmanuelle Cohen-Shacham and Edna Cabecinha
Diversity 2025, 17(7), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/d17070486 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 385
Abstract
Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are increasingly adopted in urban settings to restore ecological functions and enhance biodiversity. This study evaluates the effects of NbS interventions on bird, insect, and plant communities in the Cavalum Valley urban green area, Penafiel (northern Portugal). Over a three-year [...] Read more.
Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are increasingly adopted in urban settings to restore ecological functions and enhance biodiversity. This study evaluates the effects of NbS interventions on bird, insect, and plant communities in the Cavalum Valley urban green area, Penafiel (northern Portugal). Over a three-year period, systematic field surveys assessed changes in species richness, abundance, and ecological indicators following actions such as riparian restoration, afforestation, habitat diversification, and invasive species removal. Results revealed a marked increase in bird overall abundance from 538 to 941 individuals and in average pollinator population size from 9.25 to 12.20. Plant diversity also improved, with a rise in native and RELAPE-listed species (5.23%). Functional group analyses underscored the importance of vegetative structure in supporting varied foraging and nesting behaviours. These findings highlight the effectiveness of integrated NbS in enhancing biodiversity and ecological resilience in urban landscapes while reinforcing the need for long-term monitoring to guide adaptive management and conservation planning. Future work could evaluate ecological resilience thresholds and community participation in citizen science monitoring. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity Conservation)
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20 pages, 3714 KiB  
Article
Seed Mixes in Landscape Design and Management: An Untapped Conservation Tool for Pollinators in Cities
by Cláudia Fernandes, Ana Medeiros, Catarina Teixeira, Miguel Porto, Mafalda Xavier, Sónia Ferreira and Ana Afonso
Land 2025, 14(7), 1477; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14071477 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 898
Abstract
Urban green spaces are increasingly recognized as important habitats for pollinators, and wildflower seed mixes marketed as pollinator-friendly are gaining popularity, though their actual conservation value remains poorly understood. This study provides the first systematic screening of commercially available seed mixes in Portugal, [...] Read more.
Urban green spaces are increasingly recognized as important habitats for pollinators, and wildflower seed mixes marketed as pollinator-friendly are gaining popularity, though their actual conservation value remains poorly understood. This study provides the first systematic screening of commercially available seed mixes in Portugal, evaluating their taxonomic composition, origin, life cycle traits, and potential to support pollinator communities. A total of 229 seed mixes were identified. Although these have a predominance of native species (median 86%), the taxonomic diversity was limited, with 91% of mixes comprising species from only one or two families, predominantly Poaceae and Fabaceae, potentially restricting the range of floral resources available to pollinators. Only 21 seed mixes met the criteria for being pollinator-friendly, based on a three-step decision tree prioritizing native species, extended flowering periods, and visual diversity. These showed the highest percentage of native species (median 87%) and a greater representation of flowering plants. However, 76% of all mixes still included at least one non-native species, although none is considered invasive. Perennial species dominated all seed mix types, indicating the potential for the long-term persistence of wildflower meadows in urban spaces. Despite their promise, the ecological quality and transparency of the seed mix composition remain inconsistent, with limited certification or information on species origin. This highlights the need for clearer labeling, regulatory guidance, and ecologically informed formulations. Seed mixes, if properly designed and implemented, represent a largely untapped yet cost-effective tool for enhancing the pollinator habitats and biodiversity within urban landscapes. Full article
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21 pages, 2531 KiB  
Article
Processing Tomato Crop Benefits from Flowering Plants in Field Margins That Support Pollinators and Natural Enemies
by Vaya Kati, Theodoros Stathakis, Leonidas Economou, Philippos Mylonas, Myrto Barda, Theodoros Angelioudakis, Athanasia Bratidou Parlapani, Ilias Tsamis and Filitsa Karamaouna
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1558; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071558 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 446
Abstract
In a two-year experiment, we examined whether increasing plant diversity in the margins of processing tomato fields could attract pollinators and natural enemies of pests compared to weed flora, and questioned the effect on crop yield. Two plant mixtures sown in winter (WM) [...] Read more.
In a two-year experiment, we examined whether increasing plant diversity in the margins of processing tomato fields could attract pollinators and natural enemies of pests compared to weed flora, and questioned the effect on crop yield. Two plant mixtures sown in winter (WM) and spring (SM) were compared with weed vegetation along a tomato crop (CT) and an adjacent irrigation channel (CC). Flower cover was higher in the sown mixtures than the weedy margins, and brought in more visits of pollinating bees (including potential tomato pollinators) than the latter. Flowering species were mainly Eruca vesicaria (WM, SM), Coriandrum sativum and Lathyrus sativus (WM), Fagopyron esculentum and Phacelia tanacetifolia (SM), and Ammi majus, Rapistrum rugosum (CC, CT). Parasitoids (Eulophidae, Braconidae, Scelionidae) were more abundant in the sown and CC margins compared to the CT margin, while the abundance of predators (Aeolothripidae, Orius sp., Thomisidae) was similar among all types of margins. Fruit weight was higher in the field with the sown margins, while pest incidence in the crop was not affected by the margin type. Our findings provide new insights into the contribution of managed and existing field margins in attracting beneficial arthropods, and their implications on yield. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pests, Pesticides, Pollinators and Sustainable Farming)
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21 pages, 3079 KiB  
Review
Biology, Ecology, and Management of Prevalent Thrips Species (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) Impacting Blueberry Production in the Southeastern United States
by Rosan Adhikari, David G. Riley, Rajagopalbabu Srinivasan, Mark Abney, Cera Jones and Ashfaq A. Sial
Insects 2025, 16(7), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16070653 - 24 Jun 2025
Viewed by 601
Abstract
Blueberry is a high-value fruit crop in the United States, with Georgia and Florida serving as important early-season production regions. In these areas, several thrips species (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), including Frankliniella tritici (Fitch), Frankliniella bispinosa (Morgan), and Scirtothrips dorsalis (Hood), have emerged as economically [...] Read more.
Blueberry is a high-value fruit crop in the United States, with Georgia and Florida serving as important early-season production regions. In these areas, several thrips species (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), including Frankliniella tritici (Fitch), Frankliniella bispinosa (Morgan), and Scirtothrips dorsalis (Hood), have emerged as economically significant pests. While F. tritici and F. bispinosa primarily damage floral tissues, S. dorsalis targets young foliage. Their rapid reproduction, high mobility, and broad host range contribute to rapid population buildup and complicate the management programs. Species identification is often difficult due to overlapping morphological features and requires the use of molecular diagnostic tools for accurate identification. Although action thresholds, such as 2–6 F. tritici per flower cluster, are used to guide management decisions, robust economic thresholds based on yield loss remain undeveloped. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices include regular monitoring, cultural control (e.g., pruning, reflective mulch), biological control using Orius insidiosus (Say) and predatory mites, and chemical control. Reduced-risk insecticides like spinetoram and spinosad offer effective suppression while minimizing harm to pollinators and beneficial insects. However, the brief flowering period limits the establishment of biological control agents. Developing species-specific economic thresholds and phenology-based IPM strategies is critical for effective and sustainable thrips management in blueberry cropping systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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21 pages, 2493 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Floral Nectar and Amino Acid Yield in Eight Landscape Trees for Enhanced Pollinator Food Resources in Urban Forests
by Sung-Joon Na, Ji-Min Park, Hae-Yun Kwon and Young-Ki Kim
Plants 2025, 14(13), 1924; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14131924 - 23 Jun 2025
Viewed by 527
Abstract
Urban environments pose challenges for pollinators due to habitat loss and limited floral resources. However, green infrastructure, particularly street and ornamental trees, can play a critical role in supporting urban pollinator communities. In this study, we evaluated nectar volume, sugar content, and amino [...] Read more.
Urban environments pose challenges for pollinators due to habitat loss and limited floral resources. However, green infrastructure, particularly street and ornamental trees, can play a critical role in supporting urban pollinator communities. In this study, we evaluated nectar volume, sugar content, and amino acid composition across eight urban tree species commonly planted in South Korea. Using standardized productivity metrics at the flower, tree, and hectare scales, we compared their nutritional contributions. Our results revealed substantial interspecific differences in nectar quantity and composition. Tilia amurensis, Heptacodium miconioides, Aesculus turbinata, and Wisteria floribunda exhibited high nectar yields or amino acid productivity, whereas species such as Cornus kousa, though lower in nutritional yield, may offer complementary value due to their distinct flowering periods or other phenological traits. These findings underscore the importance of selecting tree species not only for aesthetic value but also for ecological function, providing an evidence-based approach to pollinator-friendly urban biodiversity planning and landscape management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plants and Their Floral Visitors in the Face of Global Change)
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11 pages, 773 KiB  
Review
Inhaled Allergy Diagnostics and Treatment in a Polluted Environment
by Marcel Mazur and Ewa Czarnobilska
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 5966; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26135966 - 21 Jun 2025
Viewed by 455
Abstract
Allergic diseases have been increasing in prevalence over the last years. In a polluted environment, this problem can worsen and become more complex. Long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to the aggravation of allergic rhinitis (AR) and even to the development of [...] Read more.
Allergic diseases have been increasing in prevalence over the last years. In a polluted environment, this problem can worsen and become more complex. Long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to the aggravation of allergic rhinitis (AR) and even to the development of seasonal asthma. Climate changes can accelerate and extend the pollination season. Research indicates that air pollution may modify the properties of pollen, making it more aggressive. Asymptomatic allergic people disclose their allergies in a polluted environment. A polluted environment complicates the diagnosis of seasonal allergies. The treatment might be more challenging as standard allergy medications may not be enough to control symptoms. The causal treatment of allergic rhinitis is specific allergen immunotherapy (AIT), which may prove less effective in people living in a polluted environment. The problem may lie in the proper evaluation for AIT as well as the assessment of its effectiveness. To date, the best way to confirm an allergy and qualify a patient for AIT seems to be molecular diagnostics. The question arises whether patients exposed to air pollution, which could potentially reduce the effectiveness of AIT, are still eligible for AIT. It is also debatable whether molecular diagnostics remain effective in such cases. Advancing precision medicine alongside environmental management represents a critical pathway toward reducing the growing global burden of allergic diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Therapeutic Strategies in Allergic Diseases)
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21 pages, 2835 KiB  
Article
Vibrations from Wind Turbines Increased Self-Pollination of Native Forbs, and White Bases Attracted Pollinators: Evidence Along a 28 km Gradient in a Natural Area
by Lusha M. Tronstad, Michelle Weschler, Amy Marie Storey, Joy Handley and Bryan P. Tronstad
Wind 2025, 5(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/wind5020015 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 599
Abstract
Knowledge of how wind turbines interact with vertebrate animals is growing rapidly; however, less is known about plants and insects. Turbines produce infrasound (≤20 Hz), and these vibrations decrease with distance from turbines. We measured seed set and pollinators at six sites 0 [...] Read more.
Knowledge of how wind turbines interact with vertebrate animals is growing rapidly; however, less is known about plants and insects. Turbines produce infrasound (≤20 Hz), and these vibrations decrease with distance from turbines. We measured seed set and pollinators at six sites 0 to 28 km from turbines. We measured the number and mass of seeds produced by self-pollination, insect pollination, and when pollen was not limiting for nine native plants. We assessed pollinators by target netting bees and butterflies during transects, and by using blue vane traps (bees only). Most plants produced fewer or lighter developed seeds through self-pollination. Seed set did not vary between the open- and hand-pollinated treatments, indicating that the pollen was not limiting. The number and mass of seeds in the self-pollination treatment decreased with distance from the turbines. Bees and butterflies were more abundant near the wind facility, based on transects. The vane traps collected the fewest insects within the wind facility, likely due to bees being attracted to the turbine bases. The pollinator assemblage at the wind facility was distinct compared to other sites. Infrasound produced by the turbines appeared to enhance self-pollination, and the turbine bases attracted pollinators. We provide data on a seldom studied yet critical topic to inform land management and agricultural decisions, and to promote new strategies as wind energy development grows. Full article
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18 pages, 1392 KiB  
Review
Environmental Impacts and Behavioral Adaptations of Honeybees in Algeria: A Review of Apis mellifera intermissa and Apis mellifera sahariensis Characteristics
by Yamina Haider, Noureddine Adjlane and Nizar Haddad
Insects 2025, 16(6), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16060617 - 11 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1010
Abstract
Honeybees are vital for pollination and the overall health of ecosystems. Since the 18th century, the intricate biology of honeybees has been a subject of scientific inquiry. Understanding their biological and behavioral characteristics is essential for effective beekeeping, honey production, and ecosystem sustainability. [...] Read more.
Honeybees are vital for pollination and the overall health of ecosystems. Since the 18th century, the intricate biology of honeybees has been a subject of scientific inquiry. Understanding their biological and behavioral characteristics is essential for effective beekeeping, honey production, and ecosystem sustainability. This review examines the environmental impact and management practices on the health of local honeybees in Algeria, focusing on Apis mellifera intermissa and Apis mellifera sahariensis. We summarize research findings on genetic diversity, morphometric traits, behavioral characteristics, and adaptation of local honeybees. Additionally, we discuss the threats posed by abiotic and biotic stressors and highlight the importance of conservation and sustainable management. The reviewed studies indicate that environmental factors significantly influence the behavioral characteristics and adaptation of local honeybees. Notably, the hygienic behavior of A. m. intermissa contributes to their resistance against diseases and the Varroa destructor mite. Further research in these areas is important for enhancing our understanding of honeybee health and population dynamics in Algeria, thereby informing strategies for sustainable beekeeping practices. Full article
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20 pages, 4156 KiB  
Article
Reproductive Senescence in the Pollinator, Megachile rotundata
by Jacob B. Pithan, Brooke L. Kohler, Arun Rajamohan and Kendra J. Greenlee
Insects 2025, 16(6), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16060612 - 10 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1640
Abstract
The disposable soma theory posits that organisms allocate limited resources between reproduction, maintenance, and growth, resulting in trade-offs, particularly as they age. In this study, we examined age-related reproductive senescence in Megachile rotundata, a solitary bee and important agricultural pollinator. We hypothesized [...] Read more.
The disposable soma theory posits that organisms allocate limited resources between reproduction, maintenance, and growth, resulting in trade-offs, particularly as they age. In this study, we examined age-related reproductive senescence in Megachile rotundata, a solitary bee and important agricultural pollinator. We hypothesized that, similarly to social bees, aging females would show declines in foraging behavior and reproductive fitness. Contrary to this hypothesis, we found no evidence of reproductive senescence in M. rotundata within the timeframe observed. Instead, older females increased their foraging rate, leading to larger provisions and offspring. We also observed that older bees exhibited improved foraging efficiency, likely due to learning and muscle physiology changes. Furthermore, ovarian development showed no decline with age, indicating that reproductive capacity remains stable throughout the observed timeframe. Our results challenge conventional assumptions about reproductive senescence in solitary bees and suggest that older M. rotundata may contribute to more efficient pollination, with implications for pollinator management. This study provides new insights into the aging process in solitary bees, emphasizing the need for further research into the mechanisms behind age-related behavioral and reproductive changes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)
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29 pages, 1944 KiB  
Article
Insect Abundance and Richness in Squash Agroecosystems of Georgia, United States: The Role of Cultivar Selection and Weather Conditions
by Sanower Warsi, Yinping Li, George N. Mbata and Alvin M. Simmons
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061411 - 8 Jun 2025
Viewed by 699
Abstract
This study investigated the abundance and richness of insect pests and beneficial insects on 20 squash cultivars across three seasons in middle Georgia, U.S. Insects were sampled using yellow sticky cards, pan traps and sweep nets. Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (sweet potato whitefly) was [...] Read more.
This study investigated the abundance and richness of insect pests and beneficial insects on 20 squash cultivars across three seasons in middle Georgia, U.S. Insects were sampled using yellow sticky cards, pan traps and sweep nets. Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (sweet potato whitefly) was prevalent in all seasons, while other key pests showed distinct seasonal peaks. Diaphania hyalinata Linnaeus (melonworm) peaked mid-July in summer 2021 (21 June–1 August), while Thysanoptera species, Acalymma vittatum Fabricius (striped cucumber beetle), and Diabrotica balteata LeConte (banded cucumber beetle) peaked late July-early August. In fall 2021 (4 October–14 November), Epilachna borealis (squash beetle), D. hyalinata, and D. nitidalis Stoll (pickleworm) were more active in early to mid-October, whereas D. undecimpunctata howardi Barber (spotted cucumber beetle) peaked in late November. In fall 2022 (17 October–20 November), D. balteata and D. undecimpunctata howardi peaked mid October to early November, while Anasa tristis DeGeer (squash bug) peaked in mid–late November. Orius insidiosus Say (minute pirate bug) peaked in late summer 2021 and remained stable in fall 2021. Pollinators were most active in mid-fall. Cultivars influenced insect abundance. ‘Saffron’ and ‘Amberpic 8455’ harbored the most O. insidiosus and fewer D. balteata and Thysanoptera species. ‘Golden Goose Hybrid’ had the highest moth numbers. These patterns suggest that cultivar traits influenced pest susceptibility and beneficial arthropods’ activity. Temperature and relative humidity were positively correlated with A. vittatum and E. borealis numbers, but rainfall negatively affected bees. These findings underscore the importance of cultivar selection and weather condition considerations in integrated pest management. Full article
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26 pages, 5982 KiB  
Article
Diverse Sublethal Effects of a Common Fungicide Impact the Behavior and Physiology of Honey Bees
by Xufeng Zhang, Qian Cao, Feng Wang, Yinyin Du, Wen Zhao, Yuan Guo and Olav Rueppell
Insects 2025, 16(6), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16060603 - 8 Jun 2025
Viewed by 775
Abstract
Honey bees and other pollinators are key to functioning natural and managed ecosystems. However, their health is threatened by many factors, including pesticides. Spraying fungicides during flowering of fruit trees is widespread even though it directly exposes pollinators to these fungicides. Here, we [...] Read more.
Honey bees and other pollinators are key to functioning natural and managed ecosystems. However, their health is threatened by many factors, including pesticides. Spraying fungicides during flowering of fruit trees is widespread even though it directly exposes pollinators to these fungicides. Here, we report a series of experiments designed to understand how the combination of propiconazole and carbendazim, marketed in China as Chunmanchun®, affects honey bee health. With an acute oral toxicity of 23.8 μg a.i./bee over 24 h in the laboratory, we considered the acute mortality risk from normal Chunmanchun® applications as relatively low. However, our comprehensive studies revealed other diverse effects: Chunmanchun® reduced memory after classic conditioning by approximately 25% and altered the activity of protective enzymes and the composition of the honey bees’ gut microbiota. Specifically, the genus Lactobacillus was decreased by ~13%, and Bartonella and Snodgrassella were increased by ~10% and ~7.5%, respectively. The gut metabolome was also disrupted in diverse ways, possibly as a functional consequence of the microbiome changes. Thus, we demonstrated numerous sublethal effects of the combination of propiconazole and carbendazim, which adds to the growing evidence that agrochemicals and fungicides in particular can harm pollinator health in subtle ways that are not captured in simple mortality assays. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology and Conservation of Honey Bees)
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