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Bird SA, Pope NS, McGrady CM, Fleischer SJ, López-Uribe MM. Mating frequency estimation and its importance for colony abundance analyses in eusocial pollinators: a case study of Bombus impatiens (Hymenoptera: Apidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2024:toae178. [PMID: 39137237 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toae178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
The genus Bombus (bumble bees) includes approximately 265 species, many of which are in decline in North America and Europe. To estimate colony abundance of bumble bees in natural and agricultural habitats, sibship relationships are often reconstructed from genetic data with the assumption that colonies have 1 monandrous queen. However, some species such as the North American common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens Cresson) can display low levels of polyandry, which may bias estimates of colony abundance based on monandrous sibship reconstructions. To accurately quantify rates of polyandry in wild and commercially mated queens of this species, we empirically estimated mating frequencies using a novel statistical model and genotypes from 730 bees. To genotype individuals, we used a highly polymorphic set of microsatellites on colonies established from 20 wild-caught gynes and 10 commercial colonies. We found multiple fathers in 3 of the wild colonies and 3 of the commercial colonies. This resulted in average effective mating frequencies of 1.075 ± 0.18 and 1.154 ± 0.25 for wild and commercial colonies, respectively. These findings agree with previous reports of low rates of polyandry for B. impatiens. Using a large empirical dataset, we demonstrate that assuming monandry for colony abundance estimation in species that violate this assumption results in an overestimation of the number of colonies. Our results emphasize the importance of studying mating frequencies in social species of conservation concern and economic importance for the accuracy of colony abundance estimation and for understanding their ecology and sociobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney A Bird
- Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Ecology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture, 5230 Konnowac Pass Rd, Wapato, WA 98951, USA
| | - Nathaniel S Pope
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Biology, Institute of Ecology and Evolution, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA
| | - Carley M McGrady
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Shelby J Fleischer
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Margarita M López-Uribe
- Intercollege Graduate Degree Program in Ecology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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2
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Lee YD, Yokoi T, Nakazawa T. A pollinator crisis can decrease plant abundance despite pollinators being herbivores at the larval stage. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18523. [PMID: 39122794 PMCID: PMC11316071 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69537-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pollinating insects are decreasing worldwide due to various environmental stresses (so-called pollinator crisis), raising concerns that plant productivity could be undermined in natural and agricultural ecosystems. To date, however, few studies have reported a concurrent decline in both pollinators and plants, and little is known about when a "plant crisis" occurs. Here, we propose that anthropogenic environmental stresses on pollinating insects (e.g. climate change, habitat loss, and pesticide usage) can negatively affect herbivorous insects (e.g., pollinator larvae and crop pests) as well, and effects of pollinator declines may be masked by positive effects of herbivore declines. To test the idea, we theoretically investigated plant population dynamics mediated by two insect groups: one representing a pollinator that is mutualistic at the adult stage but antagonistic at the larval stage, and the other representing a non-structured pest herbivore. Our model revealed that environmental stresses (increasing insect mortality) can have counterintuitive effects on plants. Nonetheless, plant abundance generally decreases with decreasing pollinator abundance, especially when plant populations grow slowly without pollinators, when pollinators are effective mutualists, or when pollinators are susceptible to environmental stresses. These findings offer a theoretical basis for assessing the pollinator crisis for biodiversity conservation and agricultural management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-De Lee
- Department of Physics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Tomoyuki Yokoi
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Takefumi Nakazawa
- Department of Life Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, No.1, University Road, 701, Tainan City, Taiwan.
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3
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Ji J, Gao Y, Xu C, Zhang K, Li D, Li B, Chen L, Gao M, Huangfu N, Elumalai P, Gao X, Zhu X, Wang L, Luo J, Cui J. Chromosome-level genome assembly of marmalade hoverfly Episyrphus balteatus (Diptera: Syrphidae). Sci Data 2024; 11:844. [PMID: 39097648 PMCID: PMC11298007 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-024-03666-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Episyrphus balteatus can provide dual ecosystem services including pest control and pollination, which the larvae are excellent predators of aphid pest whereas adults are efficient pollinator. In this study, we assembled a high-quality genome of E. balteatus from northern China geographical population at the chromosome level by using Illumina, PacBio long reads, and Hi-C technologies. The 467.42 Mb genome was obtained from 723 contigs, with a contig N50 of 9.16 Mb and Scaffold N50 of 118.85 Mb, and 90.25% (431.75 Mb) of the assembly was anchored to 4 pseudo-autosomes and one pseudo-heterosome. In total, 14,848 protein-coding genes were annotated, and 95.14% of genes were fully represented in NR, GO, KEGG databases. Besides, we also obtained the mitochondrial genome of E. balteatus of 16, 837 bp in length with 37 typical mitochondrial genes. Overall, this high-quality genome is valuable for evolutionary and genetic studies of E. balteatus and other Syrphidae hoverfly species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jichao Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China.
- Zhengzhou Research Base, State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China.
| | - Yue Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
- Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300384, China
| | - Chao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
- Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300384, China
| | - Kaixin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China
| | - Dongyang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China
| | - Bingbing Li
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, College of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 450046, Henan, China
| | - Lulu Chen
- College of Agronomy, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, 830052, China
| | - Mengxue Gao
- Key Laboratory of Plant Stress Biology, College of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng, 450046, Henan, China
| | - Ningbo Huangfu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
- Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Tianjin, 300384, China
| | - Punniyakotti Elumalai
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
| | - Xueke Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China
| | - Xiangzhen Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China.
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China.
| | - Li Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China.
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China.
| | - Junyu Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China.
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China.
| | - Jinjie Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Anyang, 455000, China.
- Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China.
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Pugesek G, Müller U, Williams NM, Crone EE. Resurrecting Historical Observations to Characterize Species-Specific Nesting Traits of Bumblebees. Am Nat 2024; 204:165-180. [PMID: 39008838 DOI: 10.1086/730375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
AbstractIn recent years, ecological research has become increasingly synthetic, relying on revolutionary changes in data availability and accessibility. In spite of their strengths, these approaches may cause us to overlook natural history knowledge that is not part of the digitized English-language scientific record. Here, we combine historic and modern documents to quantify species-specific nesting habitat associations of bumblebees (Bombus spp. Latreille, 1802 Apidae). We compiled nest location data from 316 documents, of which 81 were non-English and 93 were published before 1950. We tested whether nesting traits show phylogenetic signal, examined relationships between habitat associations at different scales, and compared methodologies used to locate nests. We found no clear phylogenetic signals, but we found that nesting habitat associations were somewhat generalizable within subgenera. Landcover associations were related to nesting substrate associations; for example, surface-nesting species also tended to be associated with grasslands. Methodology was associated with nest locations; community scientists were most likely and researchers using nest boxes were least likely to report nests in human-dominated environments. These patterns were not apparent in past syntheses based only on the modern digital record. Our findings highlight the tremendous value of historic accounts for quantifying species' traits and other basic biological knowledge needed to interpret global-scale patterns.
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Graham KK, Glaum P, Hartert J, Gibbs J, Tucker E, Isaacs R, Valdovinos FS. A century of wild bee sampling: historical data and neural network analysis reveal ecological traits associated with species loss. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20232837. [PMID: 39137885 PMCID: PMC11321864 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.2837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
We analysed the wild bee community sampled from 1921 to 2018 at a nature preserve in southern Michigan, USA, to study long-term community shifts in a protected area. During an intensive survey in 1972 and 1973, Francis C. Evans detected 135 bee species. In the most recent intensive surveys conducted in 2017 and 2018, we recorded 90 species. Only 58 species were recorded in both sampling periods, indicating a significant shift in the bee community. We found that the bee community diversity, species richness and evenness were all lower in recent samples. Additionally, 64% of the more common species exhibited a more than 30% decline in relative abundance. Neural network analysis of species traits revealed that extirpation from the reserve was most likely for oligolectic ground-nesting bees and kleptoparasitic bees, whereas polylectic cavity-nesting bees were more likely to persist. Having longer phenological ranges also increased the chance of persistence in polylectic species. Further analysis suggests a climate response as bees in the contemporary sampling period had a more southerly overall distribution compared to the historic community. Results exhibit the utility of both long-term data and machine learning in disentangling complex indicators of bee population trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey K. Graham
- USDA-ARS-PWA Pollinating Insect Research Unit, Logan, UT84341, USA
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI48824, USA
| | - Paul Glaum
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109, USA
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of California, Davis, CA95616, USA
- Waterborne Environmental, Leesburg, VA20175, USA
| | - Joseph Hartert
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109, USA
| | - Jason Gibbs
- Department of Entomology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3T 2N2
| | - Erika Tucker
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109, USA
- Milwaukee Public Museum, Milwaukee, WI53233, USA
- Biodiversity Outreach Network, Flagstaff, AZ86001, USA
| | - Rufus Isaacs
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI48824, USA
| | - Fernanda S. Valdovinos
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109, USA
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of California, Davis, CA95616, USA
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6
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Rondeau S, Raine NE. Size-dependent responses of colony-founding bumblebee (Bombus impatiens) queens to exposure to pesticide residues in soil during hibernation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 948:174852. [PMID: 39029756 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Bumblebees and other key pollinators are experiencing global declines, a phenomenon driven by multiple environmental stressors, including pesticide exposure. While bumblebee queens spend most of their life hibernating underground, no study to date has examined how exposure to pesticide-contaminated soils might affect bumblebee queens during this solitary phase of their lifecycle. We exposed Bombus impatiens queens (n = 303) to soil treated with field-realistic concentrations of two diamide insecticides (chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole) and two fungicides (boscalid and difenoconazole), alone or combined, during a 30-week hibernation period. We found that exposure to boscalid residues in soil doubled the likelihood of queens surviving through the colony initiation period (after successful hibernation) and laying eggs. Our data also revealed complex interactions between pesticide exposure and queen body mass on aspects of colony founding. Among others, exposure to cyantraniliprole led to lethal and sublethal post-hibernation effects that were dependent on queen size, with larger queens showing higher mortality rates, delayed emergence of their first brood, and producing smaller workers. Our results show that effects of pesticide exposure depend on intrinsic traits of bumblebee queen physiology and challenge our understanding of how bees respond to pesticides under environmentally realistic exposure scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Rondeau
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Nigel E Raine
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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7
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Dingtoumda OG, Yamkoulga M, Sawadogo S, Kam KW, Ilboudo Z. Peasant perception of beekeeping constraints and practices in large honey production areas in Burkina Faso. JOURNAL OF ETHNOBIOLOGY AND ETHNOMEDICINE 2024; 20:67. [PMID: 39020367 PMCID: PMC11253321 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-024-00690-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent decades, agricultural landscapes have been profoundly modified due to the intensification of agriculture, therefore leading to significant disturbances in all components of biodiversity. A survey on the knowledge of beekeeping realities and the use of phytosanitary products in areas of high honey production in Burkina Faso was carried out. Beekeeping realities design the state of beekeeping activities in the study localities. METHODS The objective of this survey was to characterize Beekeeping operations and to assess the level of knowledge of beekeepers on the effects of the use of phytosanitary products through different beekeeping and agricultural practices. In this sense, 113 farmer beekeepers from the Boucle du Mouhoun, Hauts-Bassins and Nord regions in Burkina Faso were surveyed about their different beekeeping practices. RESULTS The results obtained indicated that beekeeping is a secondary activity (96.47%) and is mainly practiced by men (90.27%). The respondents have mostly an average of 22 traditional hives. The majority of beekeepers have not received training (84.07%) on the hazards of plant protection products on their beekeeping farms. However, a large amount of beekeepers (70.73%) acknowledged that the use of plant protection products could be harmful to their activity. Hives are usually installed in or near the fields. The plant protection products used for crop protection are herbicides (27%), insecticides (23%), fungicides (8%), but especially mixed (42%). CONCLUSION The results show that beekeeping in Burkina Faso remains traditional and is practiced for sociocultural reasons. The use of pesticides close to beekeeping could play a role in bee colony collapse taking place in these regions. Training beekeepers on the dangers of the chemicals they use in fields near hives is therefore essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oswald Gilbert Dingtoumda
- Laboratoire d'Entomologie Fondamentale et Appliquée (LEFA), UFR, SVT, Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, 06 BP 9499, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
| | - Marcellin Yamkoulga
- Département Environnement et Foret (DEF), Institut de L'Environnement et de Recherches Agricoles (INERA), Station de Saria, BP 10, Koudougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Souhaïbou Sawadogo
- Laboratoire d'Entomologie Fondamentale et Appliquée (LEFA), UFR, SVT, Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, 06 BP 9499, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Koï Wenceslas Kam
- Institut Supérieur du Développement Durable (ISDD), Université de Fada N'gourma, BP 54, Fada N'gourma, Burkina Faso
| | - Zakaria Ilboudo
- Laboratoire d'Entomologie Fondamentale et Appliquée (LEFA), UFR, SVT, Université Joseph KI-ZERBO, 06 BP 9499, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
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8
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Ryalls JMW, Bishop J, Mofikoya AO, Bromfield LM, Nakagawa S, Girling RD. Air pollution disproportionately impairs beneficial invertebrates: a meta-analysis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5447. [PMID: 38992007 PMCID: PMC11239652 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49729-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Air pollution has the potential to disrupt ecologically- and economically-beneficial services provided by invertebrates, including pollination and natural pest regulation. To effectively predict and mitigate this disruption requires an understanding of how the impacts of air pollution vary between invertebrate groups. Here we conduct a global meta-analysis of 120 publications comparing the performance of different invertebrate functional groups in unpolluted and polluted atmospheres. We focus on the pollutants ozone, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide and particulate matter. We show that beneficial invertebrate performance is reduced by air pollution, whereas the performance of plant pest invertebrates is not significantly affected. Ozone pollution has the most detrimental impacts, and these occur at concentrations below national and international air quality standards. Changes in invertebrate performance are not dependent on air pollutant concentrations, indicating that even low levels of pollution are damaging. Predicted increases in tropospheric ozone could result in unintended consequences to global invertebrate populations and their valuable ecological services.
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Affiliation(s)
- James M W Ryalls
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6EU, UK.
| | - Jacob Bishop
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6EU, UK
| | - Adedayo O Mofikoya
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6EU, UK
| | - Lisa M Bromfield
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6EU, UK
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- Evolution and Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological and Environmental Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, CW 405, Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E9, Canada
| | - Robbie D Girling
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6EU, UK
- Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Institute for Life Sciences and the Environment, University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350, Australia
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9
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Zhang H, Zhang S, Zhang C, Xiao Z, Yan P, Aurangzeib M. Stable gullies provide a suitable habitat for functional insects and reduce the threat of pests on crops in farmland of Northeast China. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11686. [PMID: 38975262 PMCID: PMC11227938 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Gullies with lower altitudes compared to the surrounding environment are widely distributed in farmland of the watershed and their numbers are still expanding. However, it is still unclear how these gullies regulate the functional insects in farmland. In this study, land use types combined with the herbaceous plant, herbicide application, soil moisture, topography and climatic factors during crop growth were considered to understand how gullies influence the dynamics of functional insects in farmland from a watershed (240 ha) of Northeast China. The primary findings demonstrate that the richness and abundance of functional insects are generally greatest in gullies, particularly in stable gullies, and decrease in the following order: forest belts, grasslands, and farmlands within the watershed. Notably, the ratios of beneficial insects to pests (BI/Pest) in terms of richness and abundance were lower in gullies before July but reversed after July, in comparison to farmland. Stable gullies exhibited higher BI/Pest abundance and diversity ratios than developing gullies. The richness and abundance of functional insects were higher in the middle sections of gullies compared to their heads and tails. Furthermore, the ratios of BI/Pest were generally lower in farmlands than in any gully position. Functional insect dynamics were mainly determined by season, followed by plant abundance and biomass in the gullies, and rarely by soil moisture in the both watershed and single gullies scales. Generally, the richness and abundance of functional insects in farmland were mainly influenced by gullies, especially influenced by the gully middle position. Insect composition in farmland influenced by stable gullies was stronger than by developing gullies, and stable gullies were more beneficial in reducing the threat of pests to crops in the farmland of the watershed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Pengke Yan
- Northeast Agricultural UniversityHarbinChina
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10
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English SG, Bishop CA, Bieber M, Elliott JE. Following Regulation, Imidacloprid Persists and Flupyradifurone Increases in Nontarget Wildlife. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2024; 43:1497-1508. [PMID: 38819074 DOI: 10.1002/etc.5892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
After regulation of pesticides, determination of their persistence in the environment is an important indicator of effectiveness of these measures. We quantified concentrations of two types of systemic insecticides, neonicotinoids (imidacloprid, acetamiprid, clothianidin, thiacloprid, and thiamethoxam) and butenolides (flupyradifurone), in off-crop nontarget media of hummingbird cloacal fluid, honey bee (Apis mellifera) nectar and honey, and wildflowers before and after regulation of imidacloprid on highbush blueberries in Canada in April 2021. We found that mean total pesticide load increased in hummingbird cloacal fluid, nectar, and flower samples following imidacloprid regulation. On average, we did not find evidence of a decrease in imidacloprid concentrations after regulation. However, there were some decreases, some increases, and other cases with no changes in imidacloprid levels depending on the specific media, time point of sampling, and site type. At the same time, we found an overall increase in flupyradifurone, acetamiprid, thiamethoxam, and thiacloprid but no change in clothianidin concentrations. In particular, flupyradifurone concentrations observed in biota sampled near agricultural areas increased twofold in honey bee nectar, sevenfold in hummingbird cloacal fluid, and eightfold in flowers after the 2021 imidacloprid regulation. The highest residue detected was flupyradifurone at 665 ng/mL (parts per billion [ppb]) in honey bee nectar. Mean total pesticide loads were highest in honey samples (84 ± 10 ppb), followed by nectar (56 ± 7 ppb), then hummingbird cloacal fluid (1.8 ± 0.5 ppb), and least, flowers (0.51 ± 0.06 ppb). Our results highlight that limited regulation of imidacloprid does not immediately reduce residue concentrations, while other systemic insecticides, possibly replacement compounds, concurrently increase in wildlife. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1497-1508. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon G English
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christine A Bishop
- Pacific Wildlife Research Center, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Wildlife Research Division, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Matthias Bieber
- Pacific Wildlife Research Center, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Wildlife Research Division, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
| | - John E Elliott
- Pacific Wildlife Research Center, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ecotoxicology and Wildlife Health Division, Delta, British Columbia, Canada
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11
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Misiewicz A, Filipiak ZM, Kadyrova K, Bednarska AJ. Combined effects of three insecticides with different modes of action on biochemical responses of the solitary bee Osmia bicornis. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 359:142233. [PMID: 38705404 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Bees are simultaneously exposed to a variety of pesticides, which are often applied in mixtures and can cause lethal and sublethal effects. The combined effects of pesticides, however, are not measured in the current risk assessment schemes. Additionally, the sublethal effects of pesticides on a variety of physiological processes are poorly recognized in bees, especially in non-Apis solitary bees. In this study, we used a full-factorial design to examine the main and interactive effects of three insecticide formulations with different modes of action (Mospilan 20 SP, Sherpa 100 EC, and Dursban 480 EC) on bee biochemical processes. We measured acetylcholinesterase (AChE), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and esterase (EST) activities, as well as a nonenzymatic biomarker associated with energy metabolism, i.e., ATP level. All studied endpoints were affected by Sherpa 100 EC, and the activities of AChE and EST as well as ATP levels were affected by Dursban 480 EC. Moreover, complex interactions between all three insecticides affected ATP levels, showing outcomes that cannot be predicted when testing each insecticide separately. The results indicate that even if interactive effects are sometimes difficult to interpret, there is a need to study such interactions if laboratory-generated toxicity data are to be extrapolated to field conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Misiewicz
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, A. Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Zuzanna M Filipiak
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, A. Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
| | - Kamila Kadyrova
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka J Bednarska
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, A. Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
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12
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Kang Y, Wu T, Han B, Yang S, Wang X, Wang Q, Gao J, Dai P. Interaction of acetamiprid, Varroa destructor, and Nosema ceranae in honey bees. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 471:134380. [PMID: 38657514 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Health of honey bees is threatened by a variety of stressors, including pesticides and parasites. Here, we investigated effects of acetamiprid, Varroa destructor, and Nosema ceranae, which act either alone or in combination. Our results suggested that interaction between the three factors was additive, with survival risk increasing as the number of stressors increased. Although exposure to 150 μg/L acetamiprid alone did not negatively impact honey bee survival, it caused severe damage to midgut tissue. Among the three stressors, V. destructor posed the greatest threat to honey bee survival, and N. ceranae exacerbated intestinal damage and increased thickness of the midgut wall. Transcriptomic analysis indicated that different combinations of stressors elicited specific gene expression responses in honey bees, and genes involved in energy metabolism, immunity, and detoxification were altered in response to multiple stressor combinations. Additionally, genes associated with Toll and Imd signalling, tyrosine metabolism, and phototransduction pathway were significantly suppressed in response to different combinations of multiple stressors. This study enhances our understanding of the adaptation mechanisms to multiple stressors and aids in development of suitable protective measures for honey bees. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATION: We believe our study is environmentally relevant for the following reasons: This study investigates combined effects of pesticide, Varroa destructor, and Nosema ceranae. These stressors are known to pose a threat to long-term survival of honey bees (Apis mellifera) and stability of the ecosystems. The research provides valuable insights into the adaptive mechanisms of honey bees in response to multiple stressors and developing effective conservation strategies. Further research can identify traits that promote honey bee survival in the face of future challenges from multiple stressors to maintain the overall stability of environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Bo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sa Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xing Wang
- Beijing Apicultural Station, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Pingli Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
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13
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Strang CG, Rondeau S, Baert N, McArt SH, Raine NE, Muth F. Field agrochemical exposure impacts locomotor activity in wild bumblebees. Ecology 2024; 105:e4310. [PMID: 38828716 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.4310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Agricultural intensification has been identified as one of the key causes of global insect biodiversity losses. These losses have been further linked to the widespread use of agrochemicals associated with modern agricultural practices. Many of these chemicals are known to have negative sublethal effects on commercial pollinators, such as managed honeybees and bumblebees, but less is known about the impacts on wild bees. Laboratory-based studies with commercial pollinators have consistently shown that pesticide exposure can impact bee behavior, with cascading effects on foraging performance, reproductive success, and pollination services. However, these studies typically assess only one chemical, neglecting the complexity of real-world exposure to multiple agrochemicals and other stressors. In the summer of 2020, we collected wild-foraging workers of the common eastern bumblebee, Bombus impatiens, from five squash (Cucurbita) agricultural sites (organic and conventional farms), selected to represent a range of agrochemical, including neonicotinoid insecticide, use. For each bee, we measured two behaviors relevant to foraging success and previously shown to be impacted by pesticide exposure: sucrose responsiveness and locomotor activity. Following behavioral testing, we used liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) chemical analysis to detect and quantify the presence of 92 agrochemicals in each bumblebee. Bees collected from our sites did not vary in pesticide exposure as expected. While we found a limited occurrence of neonicotinoids, two fungicides (azoxystrobin and difenoconazole) were detected at all sites, and the pesticide synergist piperonyl butoxide (PBO) was present in all 123 bees. We found that bumblebees that contained higher levels of PBO were less active, and this effect was stronger for larger bumblebee workers. While PBO is unlikely to be the direct cause of the reduction in bee activity, it could be an indicator of exposure to pyrethroids and/or other insecticides that we were unable to directly quantify, but which PBO is frequently tank-mixed with during pesticide applications on crops. We did not find a relationship between agrochemical exposure and bumblebee sucrose responsiveness. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence of a sublethal behavioral impact of agrochemical exposure on wild-foraging bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline G Strang
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Sabrina Rondeau
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nicolas Baert
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Scott H McArt
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Nigel E Raine
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Felicity Muth
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, Austin, Texas, USA
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14
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Laurent M, Bougeard S, Caradec L, Ghestem F, Albrecht M, Brown MJF, DE Miranda J, Karise R, Knapp J, Serrano J, Potts SG, Rundlöf M, Schwarz J, Attridge E, Babin A, Bottero I, Cini E, DE LA Rúa P, DI Prisco G, Dominik C, Dzul D, García Reina A, Hodge S, Klein AM, Knauer A, Mand M, Martínez López V, Serra G, Pereira-Peixoto H, Raimets R, Schweiger O, Senapathi D, Stout JC, Tamburini G, Costa C, Kiljanek T, Martel AC, LE S, Chauzat MP. Novel indices reveal that pollinator exposure to pesticides varies across biological compartments and crop surroundings. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 927:172118. [PMID: 38569959 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.172118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Declines in insect pollinators have been linked to a range of causative factors such as disease, loss of habitats, the quality and availability of food, and exposure to pesticides. Here, we analysed an extensive dataset generated from pesticide screening of foraging insects, pollen-nectar stores/beebread, pollen and ingested nectar across three species of bees collected at 128 European sites set in two types of crop. In this paper, we aimed to (i) derive a new index to summarise key aspects of complex pesticide exposure data and (ii) understand the links between pesticide exposures depicted by the different matrices, bee species and apple orchards versus oilseed rape crops. We found that summary indices were highly correlated with the number of pesticides detected in the related matrix but not with which pesticides were present. Matrices collected from apple orchards generally contained a higher number of pesticides (7.6 pesticides per site) than matrices from sites collected from oilseed rape crops (3.5 pesticides), with fungicides being highly represented in apple crops. A greater number of pesticides were found in pollen-nectar stores/beebread and pollen matrices compared with nectar and bee body matrices. Our results show that for a complete assessment of pollinator pesticide exposure, it is necessary to consider several different exposure routes and multiple species of bees across different agricultural systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Laurent
- Anses, Sophia Antipolis laboratory, Unit of Honeybee Pathology, France
| | - Stéphanie Bougeard
- Anses, Ploufragan-Plouzané-Niort Laboratory, Epidemiology and welfare of pork, France
| | - Lucile Caradec
- CNRS, Statistics and Computer Science Department, L'Institut Agro Rennes-Angers, UMR 6625 IRMAR CNRS, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Florence Ghestem
- CNRS, Statistics and Computer Science Department, L'Institut Agro Rennes-Angers, UMR 6625 IRMAR CNRS, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Matthias Albrecht
- Agroscope, Agroecology and Environment, Reckenholzstrasse 191, 8046 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mark J F Brown
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK
| | | | - Reet Karise
- Chair of Plant Health, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 1a, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Jessica Knapp
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden; Department of Botany, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - José Serrano
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Simon G Potts
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, Reading University, RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Maj Rundlöf
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Janine Schwarz
- Agroscope, Agroecology and Environment, Reckenholzstrasse 191, 8046 Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Aurélie Babin
- Anses, Sophia Antipolis laboratory, Unit of Honeybee Pathology, France
| | - Irene Bottero
- Department of Botany, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Elena Cini
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, Reading University, RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Pilar DE LA Rúa
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Gennaro DI Prisco
- CREA - Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment, Bologna, Italy; Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, The Italian National Research Council, Napoli, Italy
| | - Christophe Dominik
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Dep. Community Ecology, Theodor-Lieser-Strasse 4, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Daniel Dzul
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Andrés García Reina
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Simon Hodge
- Department of Botany, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Alexandra M Klein
- Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anina Knauer
- Agroscope, Agroecology and Environment, Reckenholzstrasse 191, 8046 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marika Mand
- Chair of Plant Health, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 1a, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Vicente Martínez López
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Giorgia Serra
- CREA - Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Risto Raimets
- Chair of Plant Health, Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 1a, 51006 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Oliver Schweiger
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Dep. Community Ecology, Theodor-Lieser-Strasse 4, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Deepa Senapathi
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, Reading University, RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Jane C Stout
- Department of Botany, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Giovanni Tamburini
- Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Cecilia Costa
- CREA - Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment, Bologna, Italy
| | - Tomasz Kiljanek
- PIWET, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Puławy, Poland
| | | | - Sébastien LE
- CNRS, Statistics and Computer Science Department, L'Institut Agro Rennes-Angers, UMR 6625 IRMAR CNRS, 35042 Rennes Cedex, France
| | - Marie-Pierre Chauzat
- Anses, Sophia Antipolis laboratory, Unit of Honeybee Pathology, France; Paris-Est University, Anses, Laboratory for Animal Health, Maisons-Alfort, France.
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15
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Hederström V, Ekroos J, Friberg M, Krausl T, Opedal ØH, Persson AS, Petrén H, Quan Y, Smith HG, Clough Y. Pollinator-mediated effects of landscape-scale land use on grassland plant community composition and ecosystem functioning - seven hypotheses. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024; 99:675-698. [PMID: 38118437 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Environmental change is disrupting mutualisms between organisms worldwide. Reported declines in insect populations and changes in pollinator community compositions in response to land use and other environmental drivers have put the spotlight on the need to conserve pollinators. While this is often motivated by their role in supporting crop yields, the role of pollinators for reproduction and resulting taxonomic and functional assembly in wild plant communities has received less attention. Recent findings suggest that observed and experimental gradients in pollinator availability can affect plant community composition, but we know little about when such shifts are to be expected, or the impact they have on ecosystem functioning. Correlations between plant traits related to pollination and plant traits related to other important ecosystem functions, such as productivity, nitrogen uptake or palatability to herbivores, lead us to expect non-random shifts in ecosystem functioning in response to changes in pollinator communities. At the same time, ecological and evolutionary processes may counteract these effects of pollinator declines, limiting changes in plant community composition, and in ecosystem functioning. Despite calls to investigate community- and ecosystem-level impacts of reduced pollination, the study of pollinator effects on plants has largely been confined to impacts on plant individuals or single-species populations. With this review we aim to break new ground by bringing together aspects of landscape ecology, ecological and evolutionary plant-insect interactions, and biodiversity-ecosystem functioning research, to generate new ideas and hypotheses about the ecosystem-level consequences of pollinator declines in response to land-use change, using grasslands as a focal system. Based on an integrated set of seven hypotheses, we call for more research investigating the putative pollinator-mediated links between landscape-scale land use and ecosystem functioning. In particular, future research should use combinations of experimental and observational approaches to assess the effects of changes in pollinator communities over multiple years and across species on plant communities and on trait distributions both within and among species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Hederström
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Johan Ekroos
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Magne Friberg
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Theresia Krausl
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Øystein H Opedal
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Anna S Persson
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Hampus Petrén
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Yuanyuan Quan
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Henrik G Smith
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
| | - Yann Clough
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Science, Lund University, Sölvegatan 37, Lund, 223 62, Sweden
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16
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Wright EK, Timberlake TP, Baude M, Vaughan IP, Memmott J. Quantifying the production of plant pollen at the farm scale. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 242:2888-2899. [PMID: 38622779 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Plant pollen is rich in protein, sterols and lipids, providing crucial nutrition for many pollinators. However, we know very little about the quantity, quality and timing of pollen availability in real landscapes, limiting our ability to improve food supply for pollinators. We quantify the floral longevity and pollen production of a whole plant community for the first time, enabling us to calculate daily pollen availability. We combine these data with floral abundance and nectar measures from UK farmland to quantify pollen and nectar production at the landscape scale throughout the year. Pollen and nectar production were significantly correlated at the floral unit, and landscape level. The species providing the highest quantity of pollen on farmland were Salix spp. (38%), Filipendula ulmaria (14%), Rubus fruticosus (10%) and Taraxacum officinale (9%). Hedgerows were the most pollen-rich habitats, but permanent pasture provided the majority of pollen at the landscape scale, because of its large area. Pollen and nectar were closely associated in their phenology, with both peaking in late April, before declining steeply in June and remaining low throughout the year. Our data provide a starting point for including pollen in floral resource assessments and ensuring the nutritional requirements of pollinators are met in farmland landscapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen K Wright
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol Life Sciences Building, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
- Cabot Institute, University of Bristol, Royal Fort House, Bristol, BS8 1UH, UK
| | - Thomas P Timberlake
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol Life Sciences Building, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - Mathilde Baude
- Université d'Orléans, Château de la Source, BP 6749, Orléans Cedex 2, 45067, France
- Institut d'Ecologie et des Sciences de l'Environnement (iEES-Paris), Sorbonne Université, UPEC, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, IRD, INRAE, Paris, 75005, France
| | - Ian P Vaughan
- Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX, UK
| | - Jane Memmott
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol Life Sciences Building, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
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17
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Khan TU, Ullah I, Hu Y, Liang J, Ahmad S, Omifolaji JK, Hu H. Assessment of Suitable Habitat of the Demoiselle Crane ( Anthropoides virgo) in the Wake of Climate Change: A Study of Its Wintering Refugees in Pakistan. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1453. [PMID: 38791670 PMCID: PMC11117222 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The inevitable impacts of climate change have reverberated across ecosystems and caused substantial global biodiversity loss. Climate-induced habitat loss has contributed to range shifts at both species and community levels. Given the importance of identifying suitable habitats for at-risk species, it is imperative to assess potential current and future distributions, and to understand influential environmental factors. Like many species, the Demoiselle crane is not immune to climatic pressures. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces in Pakistan are known wintering grounds for this species. Given that Pakistan is among the top five countries facing devastating effects of climate change, this study sought to conduct species distribution modeling under climate change using data collected during 4 years of field surveys. We developed a Maximum Entropy distribution model to predict the current and projected future distribution of the species across the study area. Future habitat projections for 2050 and 2070 were carried out using two representative concentration pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) under three global circulation models, including HADGEM2-AO, BCC-CSM1-1, and CCSM4. The most influential factors shaping Demoiselle Crane habitat suitability included the temperature seasonality, annual mean temperature, terrain ruggedness index, and human population density, all of which contributed significantly to the suitability (81.3%). The model identified 35% of the study area as moderately suitable (134,068 km2) and highly suitable (27,911 km2) habitat for the species under current climatic conditions. Under changing climate scenarios, our model predicted a major loss of the species' current suitable habitat, with shrinkage and shift towards western-central areas along the Pakistan-Afghanistan boarder. The RCP 8.5, which is the extreme climate change scenario, portrays particularly severe consequences, with habitat losses reaching 65% in 2050 and 85% in 2070. This comprehensive study provides useful insights into the Demoiselle Crane habitat's current and future dynamics in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tauheed Ullah Khan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China (J.K.O.)
| | - Inam Ullah
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan 29220, Pakistan;
- College of Wildlife and Protected Areas, Northeast Forestry University, No. 26, Hexing Road, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Yiming Hu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China (J.K.O.)
| | - Jianchao Liang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China (J.K.O.)
| | - Shahid Ahmad
- School of Ecology and Environment, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
- Center for Eco-Environment Restoration Engineering of Hainan Province, Hainan University, Haikou 570228, China
| | - James Kehinde Omifolaji
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China (J.K.O.)
| | - Huijian Hu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Guangdong Public Laboratory of Wild Animal Conservation and Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510260, China (J.K.O.)
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18
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Shi J, Liu C, Zhang Y, Wu X. Early larval exposure to flumethrin induces long-term impacts on survival and memory behaviors of adult worker bees Apis mellifera. PESTICIDE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 201:105909. [PMID: 38685230 DOI: 10.1016/j.pestbp.2024.105909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Flumethrin has been supplied as an acaricide for Varroa mite control in world-wide apiculture due to its low lethal effects on honey bees. However, little is known about the effects of short-term flumethrin exposure in the larval stage on adult life stage of bees involving survival status, foraging and memory-related behaviors. Here, we found that exposure to flumethrin at 1 mg/L during larval stage reduced survival and altered foraging activities including induced precocious foraging activity, decreased foraging trips and time, and altered rotating day-off status of adult worker bees using the radio frequency identification system. Furthermore, larval exposure at 1 mg/L flumethrin influenced the correct proboscis extension responses of 7-day-old worker bees and decreased homing rates of 20-day-old worker bees, suggesting that 1 mg/L flumethrin exposure at larval stage could affect memory-related behaviors of adult bees; meanwhile, three genes related to memory (GluRA, Nmdar1 and Tyr1) were certainly down-regulated varying different flumethrin concentrations (0.01, 0.1, and 1 mg/L). Combined with transcriptomic sequencing, differentially expressed genes involved in olfactory memory of adult bees were completely down-regulated under flumethrin exposure. Our findings highlight the unprecedented impact of short-term exposure of insecticides on honey bees in long-term health monitoring under field conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingliang Shi
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang 330045, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Chen Liu
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Yonghong Zhang
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang 330045, China
| | - Xiaobo Wu
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang 330045, China.
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19
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Gray LK, Hulsey M, Siviter H. A novel insecticide impairs bumblebee memory and sucrose responsiveness across high and low nutrition. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:231798. [PMID: 38721128 PMCID: PMC11076119 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.231798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Wild bees are important pollinators of crops and wildflowers but are exposed to a myriad of different anthropogenic stressors, such as pesticides and poor nutrition, as a consequence of intensive agriculture. These stressors do not act in isolation, but interact, and may exacerbate one another. Here, we assessed whether a field-realistic concentration of flupyradifurone, a novel pesticide that has been labelled as 'bee safe' by regulators, influenced bumblebee sucrose responsiveness and long-term memory. In a fully crossed experimental design, we exposed individual bumblebees (Bombus impatiens) to flupyradifurone at high (50% (w/w)) or low (15% (w/w)) sucrose concentrations, replicating diets that are either carbohydrate rich or poor, respectively. We found that flupyradifurone impaired sucrose responsiveness and long-term memory at both sucrose concentrations, indicating that better nutrition did not buffer the negative impact of flupyradifurone. We found no individual impact of sugar deficiency on bee behaviour and no significant interactions between pesticide exposure and poor nutrition. Our results add to a growing body of evidence demonstrating that flupyradifurone has significant negative impacts on pollinators, indicating that this pesticide is not 'bee safe'. This suggests that agrochemical risk assessments are not protecting pollinators from the unintended consequences of pesticide use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily K. Gray
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX78712, USA
| | - Marcus Hulsey
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX78712, USA
- University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK73019, USA
| | - Harry Siviter
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX78712, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, BristolBS8 1TQ, UK
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Huang J, Feng H, Drake VA, Reynolds DR, Gao B, Chen F, Zhang G, Zhu J, Gao Y, Zhai B, Li G, Tian C, Huang B, Hu G, Chapman JW. Massive seasonal high-altitude migrations of nocturnal insects above the agricultural plains of East China. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2317646121. [PMID: 38648486 PMCID: PMC11067063 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2317646121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Long-distance migrations of insects contribute to ecosystem functioning but also have important economic impacts when the migrants are pests or provide ecosystem services. We combined radar monitoring, aerial sampling, and searchlight trapping, to quantify the annual pattern of nocturnal insect migration above the densely populated agricultural lands of East China. A total of ~9.3 trillion nocturnal insect migrants (15,000 t of biomass), predominantly Lepidoptera, Hemiptera, and Diptera, including many crop pests and disease vectors, fly at heights up to 1 km above this 600 km-wide region every year. Larger migrants (>10 mg) exhibited seasonal reversal of movement directions, comprising northward expansion during spring and summer, followed by southward movements during fall. This north-south transfer was not balanced, however, with southward movement in fall 0.66× that of northward movement in spring and summer. Spring and summer migrations were strongest when the wind had a northward component, while in fall, stronger movements occurred on winds that allowed movement with a southward component; heading directions of larger insects were generally close to the track direction. These findings indicate adaptations leading to movement in seasonally favorable directions. We compare our results from China with similar studies in Europe and North America and conclude that ecological patterns and behavioral adaptations are similar across the Northern Hemisphere. The predominance of pests among these nocturnal migrants has severe implications for food security and grower prosperity throughout this heavily populated region, and knowledge of their migrations is potentially valuable for forecasting pest impacts and planning timely management actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianrong Huang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control, Key Laboratory for Integrated Crop Pests Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, International Joint Research Laboratory for Crop Protection of Henan, No. 0 Entomological Radar Field Scientific Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan450002, China
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, and Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, CornwallTR10 9FE, United Kingdom
| | - Hongqiang Feng
- Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control, Key Laboratory for Integrated Crop Pests Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, International Joint Research Laboratory for Crop Protection of Henan, No. 0 Entomological Radar Field Scientific Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan450002, China
| | - V. Alistair Drake
- School of Science, UNSW Canberra, The University of New South Wales, Canberra, ACT2610, Australia
- Institute for Applied Ecology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT2617, Australia
| | - Don R. Reynolds
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Chatham, KentME4 4 TB, United Kingdom
- Department of Computational and Analytical Sciences, Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, HertsAL5 2JQ, United Kingdom
| | - Boya Gao
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu210095, China
| | - Fajun Chen
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu210095, China
| | - Guoyan Zhang
- Plant Protection and Quarantine Station of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, Henan450002, China
| | - Junsheng Zhu
- Shandong Agricultural Technology Extension Center, Jinan, Shandong250100, China
| | - Yuebo Gao
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu210095, China
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jilin Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Gongzhuling, Jilin136100, China
| | - Baoping Zhai
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu210095, China
| | - Guoping Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control, Key Laboratory for Integrated Crop Pests Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, International Joint Research Laboratory for Crop Protection of Henan, No. 0 Entomological Radar Field Scientific Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan450002, China
| | - Caihong Tian
- Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control, Key Laboratory for Integrated Crop Pests Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, International Joint Research Laboratory for Crop Protection of Henan, No. 0 Entomological Radar Field Scientific Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan450002, China
| | - Bo Huang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Crop Pest Control, Key Laboratory for Integrated Crop Pests Management on Crops in Southern Region of North China, International Joint Research Laboratory for Crop Protection of Henan, No. 0 Entomological Radar Field Scientific Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Institute of Plant Protection, Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou, Henan450002, China
| | - Gao Hu
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu210095, China
| | - Jason W. Chapman
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, and Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, CornwallTR10 9FE, United Kingdom
- Department of Entomology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu210095, China
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Kortsch S, Timberlake TP, Cirtwill AR, Sapkota S, Rokoya M, Devkota K, Roslin T, Memmott J, Saville N. Decline in Honeybees and Its Consequences for Beekeepers and Crop Pollination in Western Nepal. INSECTS 2024; 15:281. [PMID: 38667412 PMCID: PMC11050100 DOI: 10.3390/insects15040281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
In understudied regions of the world, beekeeper records can provide valuable insights into changes in pollinator population trends. We conducted a questionnaire survey of 116 beekeepers in a mountainous area of Western Nepal, where the native honeybee Apis cerana cerana is kept as a managed bee. We complemented the survey with field data on insect-crop visitation, a household income survey, and an interview with a local lead beekeeper. In total, 76% of beekeepers reported declines in honeybees, while 86% and 78% reported declines in honey yield and number of beehives, respectively. Honey yield per hive fell by 50% between 2012 and 2022, whilst the number of occupied hives decreased by 44%. Beekeepers ranked climate change and declining flower abundance as the most important drivers of the decline. This raises concern for the future food and economic security of this region, where honey sales contribute to 16% of total household income, and where Apis cerana cerana plays a major role in crop pollination, contributing more than 50% of all flower visits to apple, cucumber, and pumpkin. To mitigate further declines, we promote native habitat and wildflower preservation, and using well-insulated log hives to buffer bees against the increasingly extreme temperature fluctuations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Kortsch
- Spatial Foodweb Ecology Group, Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 1, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (A.R.C.); (T.R.)
- Tvärminne Zoological Station, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, J.A. Palménin tie 260, 10900 Hanko, Finland
| | - Thomas P. Timberlake
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol Life Sciences Building, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK; (T.P.T.); (J.M.)
| | - Alyssa R. Cirtwill
- Spatial Foodweb Ecology Group, Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 1, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (A.R.C.); (T.R.)
| | - Sujan Sapkota
- HERD International, Thapathali, Kathmandu 24144, Nepal;
| | - Manish Rokoya
- Nepal School of Public Health, Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Jumla 21200, Nepal;
| | - Kedar Devkota
- Faculty of Agriculture, Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan 44200, Nepal;
| | - Tomas Roslin
- Spatial Foodweb Ecology Group, Organismal and Evolutionary Biology Research Programme, Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Viikinkaari 1, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (A.R.C.); (T.R.)
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Ulls väg 18B, 75651 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jane Memmott
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol Life Sciences Building, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK; (T.P.T.); (J.M.)
| | - Naomi Saville
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK;
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22
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Boyd RJ, Stewart GB, Pescott OL. Descriptive inference using large, unrepresentative nonprobability samples: An introduction for ecologists. Ecology 2024; 105:e4214. [PMID: 38088061 DOI: 10.1002/ecy.4214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Biodiversity monitoring usually involves drawing inferences about some variable of interest across a defined landscape from observations made at a sample of locations within that landscape. If the variable of interest differs between sampled and nonsampled locations, and no mitigating action is taken, then the sample is unrepresentative and inferences drawn from it will be biased. It is possible to adjust unrepresentative samples so that they more closely resemble the wider landscape in terms of "auxiliary variables." A good auxiliary variable is a common cause of sample inclusion and the variable of interest, and if it explains an appreciable portion of the variance in both, then inferences drawn from the adjusted sample will be closer to the truth. We applied six types of survey sample adjustment-subsampling, quasirandomization, poststratification, superpopulation modeling, a "doubly robust" procedure, and multilevel regression and poststratification-to a simple two-part biodiversity monitoring problem. The first part was to estimate the mean occupancy of the plant Calluna vulgaris in Great Britain in two time periods (1987-1999 and 2010-2019); the second was to estimate the difference between the two (i.e., the trend). We estimated the means and trend using large, but (originally) unrepresentative, samples from a citizen science dataset. Compared with the unadjusted estimates, the means and trends estimated using most adjustment methods were more accurate, although standard uncertainty intervals generally did not cover the true values. Completely unbiased inference is not possible from an unrepresentative sample without knowing and having data on all relevant auxiliary variables. Adjustments can reduce the bias if auxiliary variables are available and selected carefully, but the potential for residual bias should be acknowledged and reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin J Boyd
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Wallingford, UK
| | - Gavin B Stewart
- Evidence Synthesis Lab, School of Natural and Environmental Science, University of Newcastle, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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23
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Han B, Wu J, Wei Q, Liu F, Cui L, Rueppell O, Xu S. Life-history stage determines the diet of ectoparasitic mites on their honey bee hosts. Nat Commun 2024; 15:725. [PMID: 38272866 PMCID: PMC10811344 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44915-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Ectoparasitic mites of the genera Varroa and Tropilaelaps have evolved to exclusively exploit honey bees as food sources during alternating dispersal and reproductive life history stages. Here we show that the primary food source utilized by Varroa destructor depends on the host life history stage. While feeding on adult bees, dispersing V. destructor feed on the abdominal membranes to access to the fat body as reported previously. However, when V. destructor feed on honey bee pupae during their reproductive stage, they primarily consume hemolymph, indicated by wound analysis, preferential transfer of biostains, and a proteomic comparison between parasite and host tissues. Biostaining and proteomic results were paralleled by corresponding findings in Tropilaelaps mercedesae, a mite that only feeds on brood and has a strongly reduced dispersal stage. Metabolomic profiling of V. destructor corroborates differences between the diet of the dispersing adults and reproductive foundresses. The proteome and metabolome differences between reproductive and dispersing V. destructor suggest that the hemolymph diet coincides with amino acid metabolism and protein synthesis in the foundresses while the metabolism of non-reproductive adults is tuned to lipid metabolism. Thus, we demonstrate within-host dietary specialization of ectoparasitic mites that coincides with life history of hosts and parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Han
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Jiangli Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qiaohong Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Fengying Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Lihong Cui
- Cell Biology Facility, Center of Biomedical Analysis, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Olav Rueppell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G2L3, Canada.
| | - Shufa Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China.
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24
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Chang X, Xue S, Li R, Zhang Y. Episyrphus balteatus symbiont variation across developmental stages, living states, two sexes, and potential horizontal transmission from prey or environment. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1308393. [PMID: 38249471 PMCID: PMC10797133 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1308393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Episyrphus balteatus is one representative Syrphidae insect which can provide extensive pollination and pest control services. To date, the symbiont composition and potential acquisition approaches in Syrphidae remain unclear. Methods Herein, we investigated microbiota dynamics across developmental stages, different living states, and two sexes in E. balteatus via full-length 16S rRNA genes sequencing, followed by an attempt to explore the possibility of symbiont transmission from prey Megoura crassicauda to the hoverfly. Results Overall, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were the dominant bacteria phyla with fluctuating relative abundances across the life stage. Cosenzaea myxofaciens is dominant in adulthood, while Enterococcus silesiacus and Morganella morganii dominate in larvae and pupae of E. balteatus, respectively. Unexpectedly, Serratia symbiotica, one facultative endosymbiont commonly harbored in aphids, was one of the predominant bacteria in larvae of E. balteatus, just behind Enterococcus silesiacus. In addition, S. symbiotica was also surprisingly most dominated in M. crassicauda aphids (92.1% relative abundance), which are significantly higher than Buchnera aphidicola (4.7% relative abundance), the primary obligate symbiont of most aphid species. Approximately 25% mortality was observed among newly emerged adults, of which microbiota was also disordered, similar to normally dying individuals. Sexually biased symbionts and 41 bacteria species with pairwise co-occurrence in E. balteatus and 23 biomarker species for each group were identified eventually. Functional prediction showed symbionts of hoverflies and aphids, both mainly focusing on metabolic pathways. In brief, we comprehensively explored the microbiome in one Syrphidae hoverfly using E. balteatus reared indoors on M. morganii as the model, revealed its dominated symbiont species, identified sexually biased symbionts, and found an aphid facultative endosymbiont inhabited in the hoverfly. We also found that the dominated symbiotic bacteria in M. crassicauda are S. symbiotica other than Buchnera aphidicola. Discussion Taken together, this study provides new valuable resources about symbionts in hoverflies and prey aphids jointly, which will benefit further exploring the potential roles of microbiota in E. balteatus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Chang
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-Breeding and Integrated Utilization, Institute of Cotton Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Anyang, Henan, China
- School of Biological and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
- Research Base, Anyang Institute of Technology, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Inte-grated Utilization, Anyang, Henan, China
- Taihang Mountain Forest Pests Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Linzhou, China
| | - Shuang Xue
- School of Biological and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
- Research Base, Anyang Institute of Technology, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Inte-grated Utilization, Anyang, Henan, China
- Taihang Mountain Forest Pests Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Linzhou, China
| | - Ruimin Li
- School of Biological and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
- Research Base, Anyang Institute of Technology, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Inte-grated Utilization, Anyang, Henan, China
- Taihang Mountain Forest Pests Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Linzhou, China
| | - Yuanchen Zhang
- School of Biological and Food Engineering, Anyang Institute of Technology, Anyang, China
- Research Base, Anyang Institute of Technology, National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Inte-grated Utilization, Anyang, Henan, China
- Taihang Mountain Forest Pests Observation and Research Station of Henan Province, Linzhou, China
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25
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Evans LC, Burgess MD, Potts SG, Kunin WE, Oliver TH. Population links between an insectivorous bird and moths disentangled through national-scale monitoring data. Ecol Lett 2024; 27:e14362. [PMID: 38253060 DOI: 10.1111/ele.14362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Insects are key components of food chains, and monitoring data provides new opportunities to identify trophic relationships at broad spatial and temporal scales. Here, combining two monitoring datasets from Great Britain, we reveal how the population dynamics of the blue tit Cyanistes caeruleus are influenced by the abundance of moths - a core component of their breeding diet. We find that years with increased population growth for blue tits correlate strongly with high moth abundance, but population growth in moths and birds is less well correlated; suggesting moth abundance directly affects bird population change. Next, we identify moths that are important components of blue tit diet, recovering associations to species previously identified as key food sources such as the winter moth Operoptera brumata. Our work provides new evidence that insect abundance impacts bird population dynamics in natural communities and provides insight into spatial diet turnover at a national-scale.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Simon G Potts
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, UK
| | | | - Tom H Oliver
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, UK
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26
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Wu T, Gao J, Choi YS, Kim DW, Han B, Yang S, Lu Y, Kang Y, Du H, Diao Q, Dai P. Interaction of chlorothalonil and Varroa destructor on immature honey bees rearing in vitro. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166302. [PMID: 37595923 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Under realistic environmental conditions, bees are often exposed to multiple stressors, especially Varroa destructor and pesticides. In this study, the effects of exposure to NOAEC of chlorothalonil during the larval stage, in the presence or absence of V. destructor, was examined in terms of survival, morphological and transcriptional changes. The interaction between chlorothalonil and V. destructor on the survival of honey bee was additive. V. destructor are the dominant factor in the interaction for survival and transcriptome alternation. The downregulation of the genes related to tissue growth and caste differentiation may directly link to the mortality of honey bees. Either chlorothalonil or V. destructor induces the irregular morphology of trophocytes and oenocytes in the fat body. In addition to irregular shapes, oenocytes in V. destructor alone and double-stressor treatment group showed altered nuclei and vacuoles in the cytoplasm. The interaction of V. destructor and chlorothalonil at the larval stage have potential adverse effects on the subsequent adult bees, with up-regulation of genes involved in lipid metabolism and detoxification/defense in fat body tissue. Our findings provide a comprehensive understanding of combinatorial effects between biotic and abiotic stressors on one of the most important pollinators, honey bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Yong Soo Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Won Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sa Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ying Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Northern Urban Agriculture of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Bioscience and Resource Environment, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yuxin Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hanchao Du
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Qingyun Diao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Pingli Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
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27
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Wang Y, Ma L, Xu B. Bee wisdom: exploring bee control strategies for food microflora by comparing the physicochemical characteristics and microbial composition of beebread. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0181823. [PMID: 37800944 PMCID: PMC10871783 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01818-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Bees are a valuable model for investigating the relationship between environmental factors, gut microbiota, and organismal health. Beebread, produced from collected pollen, is a natural food source and a primary reservoir of gut microorganisms. Although pollen typically has diverse bacterial species, beebread has low species richness and bacterial abundance. Consequently, considerable attention has been paid to the adaptive strategies employed by honey bees to cope with the microorganisms within their food environment during co-evolution with plants. This study identified the distribution patterns of beebread's physicochemical characteristics, showing how bees use fermentation to enrich specific microbes. These findings help understand the relationship between environmental and food-associated microbes and bee intestinal microbiota. They also bridge gaps in the literature and provide a valuable reference for studying the complex interplay between these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Lanting Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
| | - Baohua Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an, China
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28
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Fischer LR, Ramesh D, Weidenmüller A. Sub-lethal but potentially devastating - The novel insecticide flupyradifurone impairs collective brood care in bumblebees. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 903:166097. [PMID: 37562619 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
The worldwide decline in pollinating insects is alarming. One of the main anthropogenic drivers is the massive use of pesticides in agriculture. Risk assessment procedures test pesticides for mortality rates of well-fed, parasite free individuals of a few non-target species. Sublethal and synergistic effects of co-occurring stressors are usually not addressed. Here, we present a simple, wildly applicable bio-essay to assess such effects. Using brood thermoregulation in bumblebee microcolonies as readout, we investigate how this collective ability is affected by long-term feeding exposure to the herbicide glyphosate (5 mg/l), the insecticide flupyradifurone (0.4 mg/l) and the combination of both, when co-occurring with the natural stressor of resource limitation. Documenting brood temperature and development in 53 microcolonies we find no significant effect of glyphosate, while flupyradifurone significantly impaired the collective ability to maintain the necessary brood temperatures, resulting in prolonged developmental times and a decrease in colony growth by over 50 %. This reduction in colony growth has the potential to significantly curtail the reproductive chances of colonies in the field. Our findings highlight the potentially devastating consequences of flupyradifurone use in agriculture even at sub-lethal doses and underline the urgent need for improved risk assessment procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliana R Fischer
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, Konstanz, Germany; School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, UK.
| | - Divya Ramesh
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, Konstanz, Germany; University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anja Weidenmüller
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, Konstanz, Germany; University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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29
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Cunningham-Eurich I, Kontou D, Yordanova M, Maeda-Obregon A, Favreau E, Wang J, Hart AG, Sumner S. Using citizen science data to assess the population genetic structure of the common yellowjacket wasp, Vespula vulgaris. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 32:634-647. [PMID: 37599385 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring insect genetic diversity and population structure has never been more important to manage the biodiversity crisis. Citizen science has become an increasingly popular tool to gather ecological data affordably across a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. To date, most insect-related citizen science initiatives have focused on occurrence and abundance data. Here, we show that poorly preserved insect samples collected by citizen scientists can yield population genetic information, providing new insights into population connectivity, genetic diversity and dispersal behaviour of little-studied insects. We analysed social wasps collected by participants of the Big Wasp Survey, a citizen science project that aims to map the diversity and distributions of vespine wasps in the UK. Although Vespula vulgaris is a notorious invasive species around the world, it remains poorly studied in its native range. We used these data to assess the population genetic structure of the common yellowjacket V. vulgaris at different spatial scales. We found a single, panmictic population across the UK with little evidence of population genetic structuring; the only possible limit to gene flow is the Irish sea, resulting in significant differentiation between the Northern Ireland and mainland UK populations. Our results suggest that queens disperse considerable distances from their natal nests to found new nests, resulting in high rates of gene flow and thus little differentiation across the landscape. Citizen science data has made it feasible to perform this study, and we hope that it will encourage future projects to adopt similar practices in insect population monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iona Cunningham-Eurich
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Danai Kontou
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Monika Yordanova
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Emeline Favreau
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jinliang Wang
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, London, UK
| | - Adam G Hart
- Department of Natural and Social Science, University of Gloucestershire, UK
| | - Seirian Sumner
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, London, UK
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30
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Li M, Runemark A, Hernandez J, Rota J, Bygebjerg R, Brydegaard M. Discrimination of Hover Fly Species and Sexes by Wing Interference Signals. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2304657. [PMID: 37847885 PMCID: PMC10700183 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202304657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Remote automated surveillance of insect abundance and diversity is poised to revolutionize insect decline studies. The study reveals spectral analysis of thin-film wing interference signals (WISs) can discriminate free-flying insects beyond what can be accomplished by machine vision. Detectable by photonic sensors, WISs are robust indicators enabling species and sex identification. The first quantitative survey of insect wing thickness and modulation through shortwave-infrared hyperspectral imaging of 600 wings from 30 hover fly species is presented. Fringy spectral reflectance of WIS can be explained by four optical parameters, including membrane thickness. Using a Naïve Bayes Classifier with five parameters that can be retrieved remotely, 91% is achieved accuracy in identification of species and sexes. WIS-based surveillance is therefore a potent tool for remote insect identification and surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Li
- Department of PhysicsLund UniversitySölvegatan 14cLund22363Sweden
| | - Anna Runemark
- Department of BiologyLund UniversitySölvegatan 35Lund22362Sweden
| | | | - Jadranka Rota
- Biological Museum, Department of BiologyLund UniversitySölvegatan 37Lund22362Sweden
| | - Rune Bygebjerg
- Biological Museum, Department of BiologyLund UniversitySölvegatan 37Lund22362Sweden
| | - Mikkel Brydegaard
- Department of PhysicsLund UniversitySölvegatan 14cLund22363Sweden
- Department of BiologyLund UniversitySölvegatan 35Lund22362Sweden
- Norsk Elektro OptikkØstensjøveien 34Oslo0667Norway
- FaunaPhotonicsStøberigade 14Copenhagen2450Denmark
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31
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Encinas-Viso F, Bovill J, Albrecht DE, Florez-Fernandez J, Lessard B, Lumbers J, Rodriguez J, Schmidt-Lebuhn A, Zwick A, Milla L. Pollen DNA metabarcoding reveals cryptic diversity and high spatial turnover in alpine plant-pollinator networks. Mol Ecol 2023; 32:6377-6393. [PMID: 36065738 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Alpine plant-pollinator communities play an important role in the functioning of alpine ecosystems, which are highly threatened by climate change. However, we still have a poor understanding of how environmental factors and spatiotemporal variability shape these communities. Here, we investigate what drives structure and beta diversity in a plant-pollinator metacommunity from the Australian alpine region using two approaches: pollen DNA metabarcoding (MB) and observations. Individual pollinators often carry pollen from multiple plant species, and therefore we expected MB to reveal a more diverse and complex network structure. We used two gene regions (ITS2 and trnL) to identify plant species present in the pollen loads of 154 insect pollinator specimens from three alpine habitats and construct MB networks, and compared them to networks based on observations alone. We compared species and interaction turnover across space for both types of networks, and evaluated their differences for plant phylogenetic diversity and beta diversity. We found significant structural differences between the two types of networks; notably, MB networks were much less specialized but more diverse than observation networks, with MB detecting many cryptic plant species. Both approaches revealed that alpine pollination networks are very generalized, but we estimated a high spatial turnover of plant species (0.79) and interaction rewiring (0.6) as well as high plant phylogenetic diversity (0.68) driven by habitat differences based on the larger diversity of plant species and species interactions detected with MB. Overall, our findings show that habitat and microclimatic heterogeneity drives diversity and fine-scale spatial turnover of alpine plant-pollinator networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Encinas-Viso
- Centre for Australian National Biodiversity Research, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - Jessica Bovill
- Centre for Australian National Biodiversity Research, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - David E Albrecht
- Centre for Australian National Biodiversity Research, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - Jaime Florez-Fernandez
- Australian National Insect Collection, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - Bryan Lessard
- Australian National Insect Collection, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - James Lumbers
- Australian National Insect Collection, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - Juanita Rodriguez
- Australian National Insect Collection, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - Alexander Schmidt-Lebuhn
- Centre for Australian National Biodiversity Research, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - Andreas Zwick
- Australian National Insect Collection, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
| | - Liz Milla
- Centre for Australian National Biodiversity Research, Australian Capital Territory, Canberra, Australia
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32
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Diengdoh VL, Brook BW, Hunt M, Ondei S. Association between land use, land cover, plant genera, and pollinator abundance in mixed-use landscapes. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294749. [PMID: 37992121 PMCID: PMC10664889 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pollinators are threatened by land-use and land-cover changes, with the magnitude of the threat depending on the pollinating taxa, land-use type and intensity, the amount of natural habitat remaining, and the ecosystem considered. This study aims to determine the effect of land use (protected areas, plantations, pastures), land cover (percentage of forest and open areas within buffers of different sizes), and plant genera on the relative abundance of nectivorous birds (honeyeaters), bees (native and introduced), and beetles in the mixed-use landscape of the Tasman Peninsula (Tasmania, Australia) using mixed-effect models. We found the predictor selected (through model selection based on R2) and the effect of the predictors varied depending on the pollinating taxa. The land-use predictors were selected for only the honeyeater abundance model with protected areas and plantations having substantive positive effects. Land-cover predictors were selected for the honeyeater and native bee abundance models with open land cover within 1500 m and 250 m buffers having substantive negative and positive effects on honeyeaters and native bees respectively. Bees and beetles were observed on 24 plant genera of which only native plants (and not invasive/naturalised) were positively associated with pollinating insects. Pultenaea and Leucopogon were positively associated with native bees while Leucopogon, Lissanthe, Pimelea, and Pomaderris were positively associated with introduced bees. Leptospermum was the only plant genus positively associated with beetles. Our results highlight that one size does not fit all-that is pollinator responses to different landscape characteristics vary, emphasising the importance of considering multiple habitat factors to manage and support different pollinator taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barry W. Brook
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark Hunt
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- ARC Industrial Transformation Training Centre for Forest Value, Hobart, Australia
| | - Stefania Ondei
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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Chen H, Zhang G, Ding G, Huang J, Zhang H, Vidal MC, Corlett RT, Liu C, An J. Interspecific Host Variation and Biotic Interactions Drive Pathogen Community Assembly in Chinese Bumblebees. INSECTS 2023; 14:887. [PMID: 37999086 PMCID: PMC10672019 DOI: 10.3390/insects14110887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Bumblebees have been considered one of the most important pollinators on the planet. However, recent reports of bumblebee decline have raised concern about a significant threat to ecosystem stability. Infectious diseases caused by multiple pathogen infections have been increasingly recognized as an important mechanism behind this decline worldwide. Understanding the determining factors that influence the assembly and composition of pathogen communities among bumblebees can provide important implications for predicting infectious disease dynamics and making effective conservation policies. Here, we study the relative importance of biotic interactions versus interspecific host resistance in shaping the pathogen community composition of bumblebees in China. We first conducted a comprehensive survey of 13 pathogens from 22 bumblebee species across China. We then applied joint species distribution modeling to assess the determinants of pathogen community composition and examine the presence and strength of pathogen-pathogen associations. We found that host species explained most of the variations in pathogen occurrences and composition, suggesting that host specificity was the most important variable in predicting pathogen occurrences and community composition in bumblebees. Moreover, we detected both positive and negative associations among pathogens, indicating the role of competition and facilitation among pathogens in determining pathogen community assembly. Our research demonstrates the power of a pluralistic framework integrating field survey of bumblebee pathogens with community ecology frameworks to understand the underlying mechanisms of pathogen community assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Key Laboratory of Insect-Pollinator Biology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.C.); (G.Z.); (G.D.); (J.H.); (H.Z.)
- Centre for Yunnan Plateau Biological Resources Protection and Utilization, College of Biological Resource and Food Engineering, Qujing Normal University, Qujing 655011, China
| | - Guangshuo Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Key Laboratory of Insect-Pollinator Biology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.C.); (G.Z.); (G.D.); (J.H.); (H.Z.)
| | - Guiling Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Key Laboratory of Insect-Pollinator Biology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.C.); (G.Z.); (G.D.); (J.H.); (H.Z.)
| | - Jiaxing Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Key Laboratory of Insect-Pollinator Biology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.C.); (G.Z.); (G.D.); (J.H.); (H.Z.)
| | - Hong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Key Laboratory of Insect-Pollinator Biology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.C.); (G.Z.); (G.D.); (J.H.); (H.Z.)
| | - Mayra C. Vidal
- Biology Department, University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA 02125, USA;
| | - Richard T. Corlett
- Center for Integrative Conservation, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla 666303, China;
| | - Cong Liu
- Biology Department, University of Massachusetts, Boston, MA 02125, USA;
- Department of Organismic and Evolutional Biology, Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Jiandong An
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Key Laboratory of Insect-Pollinator Biology of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; (H.C.); (G.Z.); (G.D.); (J.H.); (H.Z.)
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34
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Nouvian M, Foster JJ, Weidenmüller A. Glyphosate impairs aversive learning in bumblebees. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 898:165527. [PMID: 37451452 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Agrochemicals represent prominent anthropogenic stressors contributing to the ongoing global insect decline. While their impact is generally assessed in terms of mortality rates, non-lethal effects on fitness are equally important to insect conservation. Glyphosate, a commonly used herbicide, is toxic to many animal species, and thought to impact a range of physiological functions. In this study, we investigate the impact of long-term exposure to glyphosate on locomotion, phototaxis and learning abilities in bumblebees, using a fully automated high-throughput assay. We find that glyphosate exposure had a very slight and transient impact on locomotion, while leaving the phototactic drive unaffected. Glyphosate exposure also reduced attraction towards UV light when blue was given as an alternative and, most strikingly, impaired learning of aversive stimuli. Thus, glyphosate had specific actions on sensory and cognitive processes. These non-lethal perceptual and cognitive impairments likely represent a significant obstacle to foraging and predator avoidance for wild bumblebees exposed to glyphosate. Similar effects in other species could contribute to a widespread reduction in foraging efficiency across ecosystems, driven by the large-scale application of this herbicide. The high-throughput paradigm presented in this study can be adapted to investigate sublethal effects of other agrochemicals on bumblebees or other important pollinator species, opening up a critical new avenue for the study of anthropogenic stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Nouvian
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany; Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany; Zukunftskolleg, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - James J Foster
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany; Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anja Weidenmüller
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany; Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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35
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Ronca S, Ford CS, Allanguillaume J, Szabo C, Kipling R, Wilkinson MJ. The value of twinned pollinator-pollen metabarcoding: bumblebee pollination service is weakly partitioned within a UK grassland community. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18016. [PMID: 37865658 PMCID: PMC10590402 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-44822-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Predicting ecological impact of declining bumblebee (Bombus) populations requires better understanding of interactions between pollinator partitioning of floral resources and plant partitioning of pollinator resources. Here, we combine Cytochrome Oxidase 1 (CO1) barcoding for bumblebee identification and rbcL metabarcoding of pollen carried by bees in three species-rich UK pastures. CO1 barcoding assigned 272 bees to eight species, with 33 individuals belonging to the cryptic Bombus lucorum complex (16 B. lucorum and 17 B. cryptarum). Seasonal bias in capture rates varied by species, with B. pratorum found exclusively in June/July and B. pascuorum more abundant in August. Pollen metabarcoding coupled with PERMANOVA and NMDS analyses revealed all bees carried several local pollen species and evidence of pollen resource partitioning between some species pairings, with Bombus pratorum carrying the most divergent pollen load. There was no evidence of resource partitioning between the two cryptic species present, but significantly divergent capture rates concorded with previous suggestions of separation on the basis of foraging behaviour being shaped by local/temporal differences in climatic conditions. Considering the bee carriage profile of pollen species revealed no significant difference between the nine most widely carried plant species. However, there was a sharp, tipping point change in community pollen carriage across all three sites that occurred during the transition between late July and early August. This transition resulted in a strong divergence in community pollen carriage between the two seasonal periods in both years. We conclude that the combined use of pollen and bee barcoding offers several benefits for further study of plant-pollinator interactions at the landscape scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Ronca
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DA, UK
| | - Caroline S Ford
- Wales Veterinary Science Centre, Y Buarth, Aberystwyth, SY23 1ND, Ceredigion, UK
| | - Joël Allanguillaume
- Department of Biological, Biomedical and Analytical Sciences, University of the West of England, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK
| | - Claudia Szabo
- School of Computer Science, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia
| | - Richard Kipling
- The Sustainable Food Trust, 38 Richmond Street, Totterdown, Bristol, BS3 4TQ, UK
| | - Mike J Wilkinson
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DA, UK.
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36
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Gekière A, Vanderplanck M, Michez D. Trace metals with heavy consequences on bees: A comprehensive review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 895:165084. [PMID: 37379929 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
The pervasiveness of human imprint on Earth is alarming and most animal species, including bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Anthophila), must cope with several stressors. Recently, exposure to trace metals and metalloids (TMM) has drawn attention and has been suggested as a threat for bee populations. In this review, we aimed at bringing together all the studies (n = 59), both in laboratories and in natura, that assessed the effects of TMM on bees. After a brief comment on semantics, we listed the potential routes of exposure to soluble and insoluble (i.e. nanoparticle) TMM, and the threat posed by metallophyte plants. Then, we reviewed the studies that addressed whether bees could detect and avoid TMM in their environment, as well as the ways bee detoxify these xenobiotics. Afterwards, we listed the impacts TMM have on bees at the community, individual, physiological, histological and microbial levels. We discussed around the interspecific variations among bees, as well as around the simultaneous exposure to TMM. Finally, we highlighted that bees are likely exposed to TMM in combination or with other stressors, such as pesticides and parasites. Overall, we showed that most studies focussed on the domesticated western honey bee and mainly addressed lethal effects. Because TMM are widespread in the environment and have been shown to result in detrimental consequences, evaluating their lethal and sublethal effects on bees, including non-Apis species, warrants further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Gekière
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000 Mons, Belgium.
| | - Maryse Vanderplanck
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, 1919 Route de Mende, 34090 Montpellier, France.
| | - Denis Michez
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000 Mons, Belgium.
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37
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Millard J, Outhwaite CL, Ceaușu S, Carvalheiro LG, da Silva e Silva FD, Dicks LV, Ollerton J, Newbold T. Key tropical crops at risk from pollinator loss due to climate change and land use. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh0756. [PMID: 37824611 PMCID: PMC10569713 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh0756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Insect pollinator biodiversity is changing rapidly, with potential consequences for the provision of crop pollination. However, the role of land use-climate interactions in pollinator biodiversity changes, as well as consequent economic effects via changes in crop pollination, remains poorly understood. We present a global assessment of the interactive effects of climate change and land use on pollinator abundance and richness and predictions of the risk to crop pollination from the inferred changes. Using a dataset containing 2673 sites and 3080 insect pollinator species, we show that the interactive combination of agriculture and climate change is associated with large reductions in insect pollinators. As a result, it is expected that the tropics will experience the greatest risk to crop production from pollinator losses. Localized risk is highest and predicted to increase most rapidly, in regions of sub-Saharan Africa, northern South America, and Southeast Asia. Via pollinator loss alone, climate change and agricultural land use could be a risk to human well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Millard
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD, UK
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Charlotte L. Outhwaite
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Silvia Ceaușu
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Luísa G. Carvalheiro
- Department of Ecology, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO 74690-900, Brazil
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Change (CE3C), University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Felipe Deodato da Silva e Silva
- Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Mato Grosso (IFMT)—Campus Barra do Garças, Barra do Garças, MT 78600-000, Brazil
| | - Lynn V. Dicks
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, UK
| | - Jeff Ollerton
- Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology, University of Northampton, University Drive, Northampton, NN1 5PH UK
| | - Tim Newbold
- Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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38
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Boyd RJ, August TA, Cooke R, Logie M, Mancini F, Powney GD, Roy DB, Turvey K, Isaac NJB. An operational workflow for producing periodic estimates of species occupancy at national scales. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2023; 98:1492-1508. [PMID: 37062709 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Policy makers require high-level summaries of biodiversity change. However, deriving such summaries from raw biodiversity data is a complex process involving several intermediary stages. In this paper, we describe an operational workflow for generating annual estimates of species occupancy at national scales from raw species occurrence data, which can be used to construct a range of policy-relevant biodiversity indicators. We describe the workflow in detail: from data acquisition, data assessment and data manipulation, through modelling, model evaluation, application and dissemination. At each stage, we draw on our experience developing and applying the workflow for almost a decade to outline the challenges that analysts might face. These challenges span many areas of ecology, taxonomy, data science, computing and statistics. In our case, the principal output of the workflow is annual estimates of occupancy, with measures of uncertainty, for over 5000 species in each of several defined 'regions' (e.g. countries, protected areas, etc.) of the UK from 1970 to 2019. This data product corresponds closely to the notion of a species distribution Essential Biodiversity Variable (EBV). Throughout the paper, we highlight methodologies that might not be applicable outside of the UK and suggest alternatives. We also highlight areas where the workflow can be improved; in particular, methods are needed to mitigate and communicate the risk of bias arising from the lack of representativeness that is typical of biodiversity data. Finally, we revisit the 'ideal' and 'minimal' criteria for species distribution EBVs laid out in previous contributions and pose some outstanding questions that should be addressed as a matter of priority. Going forward, we hope that this paper acts as a template for research groups around the world seeking to develop similar data products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin J Boyd
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Thomas A August
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Robert Cooke
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Mark Logie
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Francesca Mancini
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Gary D Powney
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - David B Roy
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Katharine Turvey
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Nick J B Isaac
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, MacLean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
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39
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Yessoufou K. The Patterns of Intraspecific Variations in Mass of Nectar Sugar along a Phylogeny Distinguish Native from Non-Native Plants in Urban Greenspaces in Southern England. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3270. [PMID: 37765434 PMCID: PMC10534836 DOI: 10.3390/plants12183270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
To serve human needs, non-native species are selected based on an array of functional traits, which generally confer competitive advantages to these species in their recipient environments. Identifying non-obvious functional traits that indirectly inform human selection of non-natives to introduce into urban greenspaces is not yet part of common discussions in invasion biology. We tested whether functional traits integrated within a phylogenetic framework, may reveal those subtle criteria underlying the introduction of non-native plants into urban greenspaces. We found no differences in terms of functional traits between natives and non-natives. We also found no evidence that functional traits predict nectar production, irrespective of how nectar production was measured. Finally, we found that the mean sugar concentration of nectar per flower is evolutionarily shared both within closely related non-native plants as well as within close native plants. However, phylogenetically close species share similar intraspecific variation in mass of nectar sugar per flower, but this is true only for non-native plants, thus revealing a non-obvious selection criteria of non-native plants for urban greenspaces. Our results indicate that the phylogenetic patterns of intraspecific variation in mass of nectar sugar per flower is the major criterion distinguishing non-natives from native plants in urban greenspaces in Southern England.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kowiyou Yessoufou
- Department of Geography, Environmental Management and Energy Studies, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 526, Auckland Park, Johannesburg 2006, South Africa
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40
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Deutsch KR, Graham JR, Boncristiani HF, Bustamante T, Mortensen AN, Schmehl DR, Wedde AE, Lopez DL, Evans JD, Ellis JD. Widespread distribution of honey bee-associated pathogens in native bees and wasps: Trends in pathogen prevalence and co-occurrence. J Invertebr Pathol 2023; 200:107973. [PMID: 37479057 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2023.107973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Pollinators have experienced significant declines in the past decade, in part due to emerging infectious diseases. Historically, studies have primarily focused on pathogens in the Western honey bee, Apis mellifera. However, recent work has demonstrated that these pathogens are shared by other pollinators and can negatively affect their health. Here, we surveyed honey bees and 15 native bee and wasp species for 13 pathogens traditionally associated with honey bees. The native bee and wasp species included 11 species not previously screened for pathogens. We found at least one honey bee-associated pathogen in 53% of native bee and wasp samples. The most widely distributed and commonly detected pathogens were the microsporidian Nosema ceranae, the bacterium Melissococcus plutonius, and the viruses deformed wing virus and black queen cell virus. The prevalence of viruses was generally higher in honey bees than in native bees and wasps. However, the prevalence of M. plutonius and the brood fungus Ascosphaera apis was significantly higher in some native bee species than in honey bees. The data also reveal novel trends in the association between co-occurring pathogens in honey bees and native bees and wasps at the pathogen community level. These results can inform the assessment of risks that native pollinator species face from pathogen stress, and indicate that many non-viral pathogens, notably M. plutonius and N. ceranae, are far more widely distributed and commonly found in native bees and wasps than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jason R Graham
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Planet Bee Foundation, San Francisco, CA 94132, USA
| | - Humberto F Boncristiani
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Inside The Hive Media, Consulting Inc., Odenton, MD 21113, USA
| | - Tomas Bustamante
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Independent Collaborator, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ashley N Mortensen
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Bisley Road, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand
| | - Daniel R Schmehl
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Bayer CropScience LP, 700 Chesterfield Pwky. W., Chesterfield, MO 63017, USA
| | - Ashlyn E Wedde
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Driscoll's Global R&D, Watsonville, CA, USA
| | - Dawn L Lopez
- Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Jay D Evans
- Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - James D Ellis
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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41
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French CM, Bertola LD, Carnaval AC, Economo EP, Kass JM, Lohman DJ, Marske KA, Meier R, Overcast I, Rominger AJ, Staniczenko PPA, Hickerson MJ. Global determinants of insect mitochondrial genetic diversity. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5276. [PMID: 37644003 PMCID: PMC10465557 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40936-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding global patterns of genetic diversity is essential for describing, monitoring, and preserving life on Earth. To date, efforts to map macrogenetic patterns have been restricted to vertebrates, which comprise only a small fraction of Earth's biodiversity. Here, we construct a global map of predicted insect mitochondrial genetic diversity from cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 sequences, derived from open data. We calculate the mitochondrial genetic diversity mean and genetic diversity evenness of insect assemblages across the globe, identify their environmental correlates, and make predictions of mitochondrial genetic diversity levels in unsampled areas based on environmental data. Using a large single-locus genetic dataset of over 2 million globally distributed and georeferenced mtDNA sequences, we find that mitochondrial genetic diversity evenness follows a quadratic latitudinal gradient peaking in the subtropics. Both mitochondrial genetic diversity mean and evenness positively correlate with seasonally hot temperatures, as well as climate stability since the last glacial maximum. Our models explain 27.9% and 24.0% of the observed variation in mitochondrial genetic diversity mean and evenness in insects, respectively, making an important step towards understanding global biodiversity patterns in the most diverse animal taxon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor M French
- Biology Department, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA.
- Biology Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Laura D Bertola
- Biology Department, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Section for Computational and RNA Biology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, N 2200, Denmark
| | - Ana C Carnaval
- Biology Department, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Biology Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Evan P Economo
- Biodiversity and Biocomplexity Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Jamie M Kass
- Biodiversity and Biocomplexity Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa, Japan
- Macroecology Laboratory, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - David J Lohman
- Biology Department, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Biology Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Entomology Section, National Museum of Natural History, Manila, Philippines
| | | | - Rudolf Meier
- Institut für Biologie, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Center for Integrative Biodiversity Discovery, Leibniz Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Museum für Naturkunde Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Isaac Overcast
- Biology Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Superieure, Paris, France
- Department of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew J Rominger
- School of Biology and Ecology, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA
- Maine Center for Genetics in the Environment, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA
| | | | - Michael J Hickerson
- Biology Department, City College of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Biology Ph.D. Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
- Division of Invertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY, USA
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42
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Van Espen M, Williams JH, Alves F, Hung Y, de Graaf DC, Verbeke W. Beekeeping in Europe facing climate change: A mixed methods study on perceived impacts and the need to adapt according to stakeholders and beekeepers. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 888:164255. [PMID: 37196971 PMCID: PMC10280316 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The beekeeping sector is suffering from the detrimental effects of climate change, both directly and indirectly. Despite numerous studies conducted on this subject, large-scale research incorporating stakeholders' and beekeepers' perspectives has remained elusive. This study aims to bridge this gap by assessing the extent to which stakeholders involved in the European beekeeping sector and European beekeepers perceive and experience the impacts of climate change on their operations, and whether they had to adapt their practices accordingly. To this end, a mixed-methods study including in-depth stakeholder interviews (n = 41) and a pan-European beekeeper survey (n = 844) was completed within the frame of the EU-funded H2020-project B-GOOD. The development of the beekeeper survey was informed by insights from literature and the stakeholder interviews. The results highlighted significant regional disparities in the perceived impacts of climate change, with beekeepers in Southern European regions expressing more negative outlooks, while Northern European beekeepers reported more favourable experiences. Furthermore, survey analysis revealed beekeepers who were classified as 'heavily impacted' by climate change. These beekeepers reported lower average honey yields, higher colony winter loss rates and a stronger perceived contribution of honey bees to pollination and biodiversity, underscoring climate change's detrimental impacts on the beekeeping sector. Multinomial logistic regression revealed determinants of the likelihood of beekeepers being classified as 'heavily impacted' by climate change. This analysis indicates that Southern European beekeepers experienced a 10-fold likelihood of being classified as heavily impacted by climate change compared to Northern European beekeepers. Other significant factors distinguishing 'winners' and 'losers' were self-reported level of professionalism as a beekeeper (ranging from pure hobbyist to fully professional, Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.31), number of years active in beekeeping (OR = 1.02), availability of floral resources throughout the bee season (OR = 0.78), beehives located in a forested environment (OR = 1.34), and the presence of local policy measures addressing climate change-related challenges (OR = 0.76).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Van Espen
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - James H Williams
- Aarhus University, Department of Ecoscience (ECOS), C.F. Møllers Allé 4-8, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Fátima Alves
- University of Coimbra, Centre for Functional Ecology, Science for People and the Planet, TERRA Associate Laboratory, Calçada Martins de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal; Universidade Aberta, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Yung Hung
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Ghent University, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wim Verbeke
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.
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43
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Misiewicz A, Mikołajczyk Ł, Bednarska AJ. Floral resources,energetic value and pesticide residues in provisions collected by Osmia bicornis along a gradient of oilseed rape coverage. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13372. [PMID: 37591888 PMCID: PMC10435552 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39950-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Pollinators in agricultural landscapes are facing global decline and the main pressures include food scarcity and pesticide usage. Intensive agricultural landscapes may provide important food resources for wild pollinators via mass flowering crops. However, these are monofloral, short-term, and may contain pesticide residues. We explored how the landscape composition with a different proportion of oilseed rape (6-65%) around Osmia bicornis nests affects floral diversity, contamination with pesticides, and energetic value of provisions collected by this species of wild bees as food for their offspring. Altogether, the bees collected pollen from 28 plant taxa (6-15 per nest) and provisions were dominated by Brassica napus (6.0-54.2%, median 44.4%, 12 nests), Quercus sp. (1.2-19.4%, median 5.2%, 12 nests), Ranunculus sp. (0.4-42.7%, median 4.7%, 12 nests), Poaceae (1.2-59.9%, median 5.8%, 11 nests) and Acer sp. (0.6-42%, median 18.0%, 8 nests). Residues of 12 pesticides were found in provisions, with acetamiprid, azoxystrobin, boscalid, and dimethoate being the most frequently detected at concentrations up to 1.2, 198.4, 16.9 and 17.8 ng/g (median 0.3, 10.6, 11.3, 4.4 ng/g), respectively. Floral diversity and energetic value of provisions, but not the Pesticide Risk Index depended on landscape structure. Moreover, pollen diversity decreased, and energetic value increased with landscape diversity. Thus, even a structurally simple landscape may provide diverse food for O. bicornis if the nest is located close to a single but resource-diverse patch. Both B. napus and non-crop pollen were correlated with pesticide concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Misiewicz
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, A. Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Łukasz Mikołajczyk
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, A. Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka J Bednarska
- Institute of Nature Conservation, Polish Academy of Sciences, A. Mickiewicza 33, 31-120, Kraków, Poland
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44
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Ulyshen M, Urban-Mead KR, Dorey JB, Rivers JW. Forests are critically important to global pollinator diversity and enhance pollination in adjacent crops. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2023; 98:1118-1141. [PMID: 36879466 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Although the importance of natural habitats to pollinator diversity is widely recognized, the value of forests to pollinating insects has been largely overlooked in many parts of the world. In this review, we (i) establish the importance of forests to global pollinator diversity, (ii) explore the relationship between forest cover and pollinator diversity in mixed-use landscapes, and (iii) highlight the contributions of forest-associated pollinators to pollination in adjacent crops. The literature shows unambiguously that native forests support a large number of forest-dependent species and are thus critically important to global pollinator diversity. Many pollinator taxa require or benefit greatly from resources that are restricted to forests, such as floral resources provided by forest plants (including wind-pollinated trees), dead wood for nesting, tree resins, and various non-floral sugar sources (e.g. honeydew). Although landscape-scale studies generally support the conclusion that forests enhance pollinator diversity, findings are often complicated by spatial scale, focal taxa, landscape context, temporal context, forest type, disturbance history, and external stressors. While some forest loss can be beneficial to pollinators by enhancing habitat complementarity, too much can result in the near-elimination of forest-associated species. There is strong evidence from studies of multiple crop types that forest cover can substantially increase yields in adjacent habitats, at least within the foraging ranges of the pollinators involved. The literature also suggests that forests may have enhanced importance to pollinators in the future given their role in mitigating the negative effects of pesticides and climate change. Many questions remain about the amount and configuration of forest cover required to promote the diversity of forest-associated pollinators and their services within forests and in neighbouring habitats. However, it is clear from the current body of knowledge that any effort to preserve native woody habitats, including the protection of individual trees, will benefit pollinating insects and help maintain the critical services they provide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ulyshen
- USDA Forest Service, 320 Green Street, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Katherine R Urban-Mead
- Department of Entomology, Cornell University, 129 Garden Avenue, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, Columbus, NJ, 08022, USA
| | - James B Dorey
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, SA, 5042, Australia
| | - James W Rivers
- Department of Forest Engineering, Resources, and Management, Oregon State University, 3100 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
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45
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Zharkov D, Nizamutdinov T, Dubovikoff D, Abakumov E, Pospelova A. Navigating Agricultural Expansion in Harsh Conditions in Russia: Balancing Development with Insect Protection in the Era of Pesticides. INSECTS 2023; 14:557. [PMID: 37367373 DOI: 10.3390/insects14060557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
As the world's population continues to increase, ensuring food security becomes a major problem. This often leads to the expansion of agricultural production, even in harsh conditions and becomes a key problem for many countries, including Russia. However, such expansion may entail certain costs, including the potential loss of insect populations, which are vital for ecological balance and agricultural productivity. The development of fallow lands in these regions is necessary to increase food production and increase food security; it is important to balance this with protection from harmful insects and sustainable farming methods. Research into the effects of insecticides on insects is an ongoing challenge, and new, sustainable farming methods are needed to ensure that protection from harmful insects and sustainable development can coexist. This article discusses the use of pesticides to protect the well-being of mankind, the problems of studying the effects of pesticides on insects and the vulnerability of insects to pesticides in regions with harsh conditions. It also discusses successful methods of sustainable agriculture and the importance of the legal framework governing the use of pesticides. The article emphasises the importance of balanced development with insect protection to ensure the sustainability of agricultural expansion in harsh conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry Zharkov
- Department of Applied Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Timur Nizamutdinov
- Department of Applied Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Dmitry Dubovikoff
- Department of Applied Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Evgeny Abakumov
- Department of Applied Ecology, Faculty of Biology, Saint Petersburg State University, Saint Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Alena Pospelova
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology, Faculty of Biology, Perm State National Research University, Perm 614068, Russia
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46
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Mancini F, Cooke R, Woodcock BA, Greenop A, Johnson AC, Isaac NJB. Invertebrate biodiversity continues to decline in cropland. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20230897. [PMID: 37282535 PMCID: PMC10244961 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.0897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Modern agriculture has drastically changed global landscapes and introduced pressures on wildlife populations. Policy and management of agricultural systems has changed over the last 30 years, a period characterized not only by intensive agricultural practices but also by an increasing push towards sustainability. It is crucial that we understand the long-term consequences of agriculture on beneficial invertebrates and assess if policy and management approaches recently introduced are supporting their recovery. In this study, we use large citizen science datasets to derive trends in invertebrate occupancy in Great Britain between 1990 and 2019. We compare these trends between regions of no- (0%), low- (greater than 0-50%) and high-cropland (greater than 50%) cover, which includes arable and horticultural crops. Although we detect general declines, invertebrate groups are declining most strongly in high-cropland cover regions. This suggests that even in the light of improved policy and management over the last 30 years, the way we are managing cropland is failing to conserve and restore invertebrate communities. New policy-based drivers and incentives are required to support the resilience and sustainability of agricultural ecosystems. Post-Brexit changes in UK agricultural policy and reforms under the Environment Act offer opportunities to improve agricultural landscapes for the benefit of biodiversity and society.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rob Cooke
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Ben A. Woodcock
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Arran Greenop
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Wallingford, OX10 8BB, UK
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47
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Lenzi A, Birtele D, Gisondi S, Romano M, Petriccione B, Cerretti P, Campanaro A. Robber flies and hover flies (Insecta, Diptera, Asilidae and Syrphidae) in beech forests of the central Apennines: a contribution to the inventory of insect biodiversity in Italian State Nature Reserves. Biodivers Data J 2023; 11:e101327. [PMID: 37215463 PMCID: PMC10199333 DOI: 10.3897/bdj.11.e101327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The present paper describes a sampling-event dataset on species belonging to two families of Diptera (Syrphidae and Asilidae) collected between 2012 and 2019 in two Italian beech forests located in the central Apennines. The reference dataset consists of an annotated checklist and has been published on Zenodo. Syrphidae and Asilidae are two widespread and key ecological groups, including predator, pollinator and saproxylic species. Despite their pivotal role in both natural and man-made ecosystems, these families are still poorly known in terms of local distribution and open-access sampling-event data are rare in Italy. New information This open-access dataset includes 2,295 specimens for a total of 21 Asilidae and 65 Syrphidae species. Information about the collection (e.g. place, date, methods applied, collector) and the identification (e.g. species name, author, taxon ID) of the species is provided. Given the current biodiversity crisis, the publication of checklists, sampling-event data and datasets on insect communities in open-access repositories is highly recommended, as it represents the opportunity to share biodiversity information amongst different stakeholders. Moreover, such data are also a valuable source of information for nature reserve managers responsible for monitoring the conservation status of protected and endangered species and habitats and for evaluating the effects of conservation actions over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Lenzi
- Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria – Centro di ricerca Difesa e Certificazione, Firenze, ItalyConsiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria – Centro di ricerca Difesa e CertificazioneFirenzeItaly
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza Università di Roma, Roma, ItalyDipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza Università di RomaRomaItaly
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, ItalyNBFC, National Biodiversity Future CenterPalermoItaly
| | - Daniele Birtele
- Carabinieri Biodiversità, Reparto di Verona – Centro Nazionale Carabinieri Biodiversità “Bosco Fontana", Marmirolo (Mantova), ItalyCarabinieri Biodiversità, Reparto di Verona – Centro Nazionale Carabinieri Biodiversità “Bosco Fontana"Marmirolo (Mantova)Italy
| | - Silvia Gisondi
- Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria – Centro di ricerca Difesa e Certificazione, Firenze, ItalyConsiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria – Centro di ricerca Difesa e CertificazioneFirenzeItaly
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, ItalyNBFC, National Biodiversity Future CenterPalermoItaly
| | - Mario Romano
- Raggruppamento Carabinieri Biodiversità, Reparto di Castel di Sangro, Castel di Sangro (L'Aquila), ItalyRaggruppamento Carabinieri Biodiversità, Reparto di Castel di SangroCastel di Sangro (L'Aquila)Italy
| | - Bruno Petriccione
- Colonnello dei Carabinieri per la Biodiversità, nella riserva, Castel di Sangro, ItalyColonnello dei Carabinieri per la Biodiversità, nella riservaCastel di SangroItaly
| | - Pierfilippo Cerretti
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza Università di Roma, Roma, ItalyDipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza Università di RomaRomaItaly
| | - Alessandro Campanaro
- Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria – Centro di ricerca Difesa e Certificazione, Firenze, ItalyConsiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l’analisi dell’economia agraria – Centro di ricerca Difesa e CertificazioneFirenzeItaly
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, ItalyNBFC, National Biodiversity Future CenterPalermoItaly
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48
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Manley R, Doublet V, Wright ON, Doyle T, Refoy I, Hedges S, Pascall D, Carvell C, Brown MJF, Wilfert L. Conservation measures or hotspots of disease transmission? Agri-environment schemes can reduce disease prevalence in pollinator communities. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2023; 378:20220004. [PMID: 36744563 PMCID: PMC9900712 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Insects are under pressure from agricultural intensification. To protect pollinators, conservation measures such as the EU agri-environment schemes (AES) promote planting wildflowers along fields. However, this can potentially alter disease ecology by serving as transmission hubs or by diluting infections. We tested this by measuring plant-pollinator interactions and virus infections (DWV-A, DWV-B and ABPV) across pollinator communities in agricultural landscapes over a year. AES had a direct effect on DWV-B, reducing prevalence and load in honeybees, with a tentative general dilution effect on load in early summer. DWV-A prevalence was reduced both under AES and with increasing niche overlap between competent hosts, likely via a dilution effect. By contrast, AES had no impact on ABPV, its prevalence driven by the proportion of bumblebees in the community. Epidemiological differences were also reflected in the virus phylogenies, with DWV-B showing recent rapid expansion, while DWV-A and ABPV showed slower growth rates and geographical population structure. Phylogenies indicate that all three viruses freely circulate across their host populations. Our study illustrates how complex interactions between environmental, ecological and evolutionary factors may influence wildlife disease dynamics. Supporting pollinator nutrition can mitigate the transmission of important bee diseases, providing an unexpected boost to pollinator conservation. This article is part of the theme issue 'Infectious disease ecology and evolution in a changing world'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn Manley
- Department of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Streatham Campus, Exeter EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Vincent Doublet
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, University of Ulm, 89069 Ulm, Germany,Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Owen N. Wright
- Department of Psychology, University of Exeter, Streatham Campus, Exeter EX4 4QG, UK
| | - Toby Doyle
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Isobel Refoy
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Sophie Hedges
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
| | - David Pascall
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0SR, UK
| | - Claire Carvell
- UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford OX10 8BB, UK
| | - Mark J. F. Brown
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution, and Behaviour, Department of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham TW20 0EX, UK
| | - Lena Wilfert
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, University of Ulm, 89069 Ulm, Germany,Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Penryn TR10 9FE, UK
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49
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Pindar A, Raine NE. Safeguarding pollinators requires specific habitat prescriptions and substantially more land area than suggested by current policy. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1040. [PMID: 36944669 PMCID: PMC10030592 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-26872-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Habitat loss and fragmentation are major drivers of global pollinator declines, yet even after recent unprecedented periods of anthropogenic land-use intensification the amount of habitat needed to support insect pollinators remains unknown. Here we use comprehensive pan trap bee survey datasets from Ontario, Canada, to determine which habitat types are needed and at what spatial scales to support wild bee communities. Safeguarding wild bee communities in a Canadian landscape requires 11.6-16.7% land-cover from a diverse range of habitats (~ 2.6-3.7 times current policy guidelines) to provide targeted habitat prescriptions for different functional guilds over a variety of spatial scales, irrespective of whether conservation aims are enhancing bee species richness or abundance. Sensitive and declining habitats, like tallgrass woodlands and wetlands, were important predictors of bee biodiversity. Conservation strategies that under-estimate the extent of habitat, spatial scale and specific habitat needs of functional guilds are unlikely to protect bee communities and the essential pollination services they provide to both crops and wild plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alana Pindar
- School of Science and Techonology, Cape Breton University, Sydney, NS, B1P 6L2, Canada.
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
| | - Nigel E Raine
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
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Xu WB, Blowes SA, Brambilla V, Chow CFY, Fontrodona-Eslava A, Martins IS, McGlinn D, Moyes F, Sagouis A, Shimadzu H, van Klink R, Magurran AE, Gotelli NJ, McGill BJ, Dornelas M, Chase JM. Regional occupancy increases for widespread species but decreases for narrowly distributed species in metacommunity time series. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1463. [PMID: 36927847 PMCID: PMC10020147 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37127-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
While human activities are known to elicit rapid turnover in species composition through time, the properties of the species that increase or decrease their spatial occupancy underlying this turnover are less clear. Here, we used an extensive dataset of 238 metacommunity time series of multiple taxa spread across the globe to evaluate whether species that are more widespread (large-ranged species) differed in how they changed their site occupancy over the 10-90 years the metacommunities were monitored relative to species that are more narrowly distributed (small-ranged species). We found that on average, large-ranged species tended to increase in occupancy through time, whereas small-ranged species tended to decrease. These relationships were stronger in marine than in terrestrial and freshwater realms. However, in terrestrial regions, the directional changes in occupancy were less extreme in protected areas. Our findings provide evidence for systematic decreases in occupancy of small-ranged species, and that habitat protection could mitigate these losses in the face of environmental change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu-Bing Xu
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
- Department of Computer Science, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Shane A Blowes
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Viviana Brambilla
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
| | - Cher F Y Chow
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
| | - Ada Fontrodona-Eslava
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
| | - Inês S Martins
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
- Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity, Berrick Saul Second Floor, University of York, York, UK
| | - Daniel McGlinn
- Department of Biology, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Faye Moyes
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
| | - Alban Sagouis
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Hideyasu Shimadzu
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, UK
- Graduate School of Public Health, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Roel van Klink
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Computer Science, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Anne E Magurran
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
| | | | - Brian J McGill
- School of Biology and Ecology and Mitchell Center for Sustainability Solutions, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA
| | - Maria Dornelas
- Centre for Biological Diversity, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Scotland
- Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity, Berrick Saul Second Floor, University of York, York, UK
- MARE, Guia Marine Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Cascais, Portugal
| | - Jonathan M Chase
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
- Department of Computer Science, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany.
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