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De Silva AL, Kämper W, Ogbourne SM, Nichols J, Royle JWL, Peters T, Hawkes D, Hosseini Bai S, Wallace HM, Trueman SJ. MassARRAY and SABER Analyses of SNPs in Embryo DNA Reveal the Abscission of Self-Fertilised Progeny during Fruit Development of Macadamia ( Macadamia integrifolia Maiden & Betche). Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6419. [PMID: 38928124 PMCID: PMC11204000 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126419] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Yield in many crops is affected by abscission during the early stages of fruitlet development. The reasons for fruitlet abscission are often unclear but they may include genetic factors because, in some crops, self-pollinated fruitlets are more likely to abscise than cross-pollinated fruitlets. Pollen parentage can also affect final fruit size and fruit quality. Here, we aimed to understand the effects of pollen parentage on fruitlet retention and nut quality in orchards of macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia Maiden & Betche). We identified the pollen parent of macadamia 'cultivar '816' embryos by analysing single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in their DNA using customised MassARRAY and Single Allele Base Extension Reaction (SABER) methods. This allowed us to determine the proportions of self-fertilised and cross-fertilised progeny during premature fruit drop at 6 weeks and 10 weeks after peak anthesis, as well as at nut maturity. We determined how pollen parentage affected nut-in-shell (NIS) mass, kernel mass, kernel recovery, and oil concentration. Macadamia trees retained cross-fertilised fruitlets rather than self-fertilised fruitlets. The percentage of progeny that were cross-fertilised increased from 6% at 6 weeks after peak anthesis to 97% at nut maturity, with each tree producing on average 22 self-fertilised nuts and 881 cross-fertilised nuts. Three of the four cross-pollen parents provided fruit with significantly higher NIS mass, kernel mass, or kernel recovery than the few remaining self-fertilised fruit. Fruit that were cross-fertilised by '842', 'A4', or 'A203' had 16-29% higher NIS mass and 24-44% higher kernel mass than self-fertilised fruit. Nuts that were cross-fertilised by 'A4' or 'A203' also had 5% or 6% higher kernel recovery, worth approximately $US460-540 more per ton for growers than self-fertilised nuts. The highly selective abscission of self-fertilised fruitlets and the lower nut quality of self-fertilised fruit highlight the critical importance of cross-pollination for macadamia productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anushika L. De Silva
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (A.L.D.S.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
| | - Wiebke Kämper
- Functional Agrobiodiversity and Agroecology, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany;
| | - Steven M. Ogbourne
- Centre for Bioinnovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia;
- School of Science, Technology & Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia
| | - Joel Nichols
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (A.L.D.S.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
| | - Jack W. L. Royle
- Australian Genome Research Facility, Gehrmann Laboratories, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.W.L.R.); (T.P.); (D.H.)
| | - Trent Peters
- Australian Genome Research Facility, Gehrmann Laboratories, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.W.L.R.); (T.P.); (D.H.)
| | - David Hawkes
- Australian Genome Research Facility, Gehrmann Laboratories, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia; (J.W.L.R.); (T.P.); (D.H.)
| | - Shahla Hosseini Bai
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (A.L.D.S.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
| | - Helen M. Wallace
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Queensland University of Technology, GPO Box 2434, Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia;
| | - Stephen J. Trueman
- Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia; (A.L.D.S.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
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The Role of Uncultivated Habitats in Supporting Wild Bee Communities in Mediterranean Agricultural Landscapes. DIVERSITY 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/d15020294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
In agricultural landscapes, uncultivated habitat patches may have a focal role in supporting communities of ecosystem service providers. However, little is known on the variances among different types of uncultivated habitat patches in providing resources and maintaining populations of these beneficial organisms. We studied wild bee communities in natural and semi-natural uncultivated patches embedded in semi-arid Mediterranean agricultural landscapes. We investigated the effects of local- and landscape-scale land-use characteristics, as well as their interactions, on bee diversity, functional composition, and forage and nesting resources. Most bee community parameters were affected by both local- and landscape-scale characteristics, but no significant interactions were found among the scales. Local land-use effects were related primarily to overall plant cover, and to the abundance and richness of flowering plants. Landscape effects, mostly limited to a 400 m range, were varied. The abundance of focal crop pollinators varied considerably between patch type and pollinator species. The different types of uncultivated habitats maintain complementary bee and flower communities. Our findings show the important role of uncultivated habitat patches in providing floral and nesting resources for bees, and creating resource-landscapes that can support wild bee communities and crop pollination services in Mediterranean agricultural landscapes.
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Djakaria KM, Atmowidi T, Priawandiputra W. The Foraging Activity and Pollination Services of Three Stingless Bee Species to Enhance Fruit Quality and Quantity of Okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus L.). ACTA UNIVERSITATIS AGRICULTURAE ET SILVICULTURAE MENDELIANAE BRUNENSIS 2022. [DOI: 10.11118/actaun.2022.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Garibaldi LA, Gomez Carella DS, Nabaes Jodar DN, Smith MR, Timberlake TP, Myers SS. Exploring connections between pollinator health and human health. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210158. [PMID: 35491592 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in understanding the role of biodiversity in ecosystem-service provision, the links between the health of ecosystem-service providers and human health remain more uncertain. During the past decade, an increasing number of studies have argued for the positive impacts of healthy pollinator communities (defined as functionally and genetically diverse species assemblages that are sustained over time) on human health. Here, we begin with a systematic review of these impacts, finding only two studies that concomitantly quantified aspects of pollinator health and human health. Next, we identify relevant research relating to four pathways linking pollinator health and human health: nutrition, medicine provisioning, mental health and environmental quality. These benefits are obtained through improved pollination of nutritious crops and an estimated approximately 28 000 animal-pollinated medicinal plants; the provisioning of pollinator-derived products such as honey; the maintenance of green spaces and biocultural landscapes that improve mental health; and cleaner air, water and food resulting from pollinator-centred initiatives to reduce agrochemical use. We suggest that pollinator diversity could be a proxy for the benefits that landscapes provide to human health. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas A Garibaldi
- Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - Dulce S Gomez Carella
- Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - Diego N Nabaes Jodar
- Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - Matthew R Smith
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, 02115 MA, USA
| | - Thomas P Timberlake
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ UK
| | - Samuel S Myers
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, 02115 MA, USA.,Harvard University Center for the Environment, Cambridge, 02138 MA, USA
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5
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Porto RG, Cruz-Neto O, Tabarelli M, Viana BF, Peres CA, Lopes AV. Pollinator-dependent crops in Brazil yield nearly half of nutrients for humans and livestock feed. GLOBAL FOOD SECURITY 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gfs.2021.100587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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6
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Kämper W, Ogbourne SM, Hawkes D, Trueman SJ. SNP markers reveal relationships between fruit paternity, fruit quality and distance from a cross-pollen source in avocado orchards. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20043. [PMID: 34625603 PMCID: PMC8501009 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99394-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Cross-pollination can improve fruit yield, fruit size and nutritional quality of many food crops. However, we rarely understand what proportions of the crop result from self- or cross-pollination, how cross-pollination affects crop quality, and how far pollen is transported by pollinators. Management strategies to improve pollination services are consequently not optimal for many crops. We utilised a series of SNP markers, unique for each cultivar of avocado, to quantify proportions of self- and cross-paternity in fruit of Hass avocado at increasing distances from cross-pollen sources. We assessed whether distance from a cross-pollen source determined the proportions of self-pollinated and cross-pollinated fruit, and evaluated how self- and cross-paternity affected fruit size and nutritional quality. Avocado fruit production resulted from both self- and cross-pollination in cultivar Hass in Queensland, Australia. Cross-pollination levels decreased with increasing distance from a cross-pollen source, from 63% in the row adjacent to another cultivar to 25% in the middle of a single-cultivar block, suggesting that pollen transport was limited across orchard rows. Limited pollen transport did not affect fruit size or quality in Hass avocados as xenia effects of a Shepard polliniser on size and nutritional quality were minor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Kämper
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia.
- Department of Animal Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany.
| | - Steven M Ogbourne
- GeneCology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD, Australia
| | - David Hawkes
- Australian Genome Research Facility, Gehrmann Laboratories, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Stephen J Trueman
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD, Australia
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7
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Kämper W, Trueman SJ, Ogbourne SM, Wallace HM. Pollination services in a macadamia cultivar depend on across‐orchard transport of cross pollen. J Appl Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.14002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wiebke Kämper
- Food Futures Platform Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University Nathan Qld Australia
- Department of Animal Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity Ruhr‐University Bochum Bochum Germany
- Genecology Research Centre University of the Sunshine Coast Maroochydore DC Qld Australia
| | - Stephen J. Trueman
- Food Futures Platform Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University Nathan Qld Australia
- Genecology Research Centre University of the Sunshine Coast Maroochydore DC Qld Australia
| | - Steven M. Ogbourne
- Genecology Research Centre University of the Sunshine Coast Maroochydore DC Qld Australia
- School of Science, Technology and Engineering University of the Sunshine Coast Maroochydore DC Qld Australia
| | - Helen M. Wallace
- Food Futures Platform Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University Nathan Qld Australia
- Genecology Research Centre University of the Sunshine Coast Maroochydore DC Qld Australia
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8
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Ascari L, Novara C, Dusio V, Oddi L, Siniscalco C. Quantitative methods in microscopy to assess pollen viability in different plant taxa. PLANT REPRODUCTION 2020; 33:205-219. [PMID: 33123804 PMCID: PMC7648740 DOI: 10.1007/s00497-020-00398-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
High-quality pollen is a prerequisite for plant reproductive success. Pollen viability and sterility can be routinely assessed using common stains and manual microscope examination, but with low overall statistical power. Current automated methods are primarily directed towards the analysis of pollen sterility, and high throughput solutions for both pollen viability and sterility evaluation are needed that will be consistent with emerging biotechnological strategies for crop improvement. Our goal is to refine established labelling procedures for pollen, based on the combination of fluorescein (FDA) and propidium iodide (PI), and to develop automated solutions for accurately assessing pollen grain images and classifying them for quality. We used open-source software programs (CellProfiler, CellProfiler Analyst, Fiji and R) for analysis of images collected from 10 pollen taxa labelled using FDA/PI. After correcting for image background noise, pollen grain images were examined for quality employing thresholding and segmentation. Supervised and unsupervised classification of per-object features was employed for the identification of viable, dead and sterile pollen. The combination of FDA and PI dyes was able to differentiate between viable, dead and sterile pollen in all the analysed taxa. Automated image analysis and classification significantly increased the statistical power of the pollen viability assay, identifying more than 75,000 pollen grains with high accuracy (R2 = 0.99) when compared to classical manual counting. Overall, we provide a comprehensive set of methodologies as baseline for the automated assessment of pollen viability using fluorescence microscopy, which can be combined with manual and mechanized imaging systems in fundamental and applied research on plant biology. We also supply the complete set of pollen images (the FDA/PI pollen dataset) to the scientific community for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Ascari
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Viale Mattioli, 25, 10125, Turin, Italy.
| | - Cristina Novara
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Viale Mattioli, 25, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Virginia Dusio
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Viale Mattioli, 25, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Ludovica Oddi
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Viale Mattioli, 25, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Consolata Siniscalco
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Viale Mattioli, 25, 10125, Turin, Italy
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9
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Nunes-Silva P, Witter S, da Rosa JM, Halinski R, Schlemmer LM, Arioli CJ, Ramos JD, Botton M, Blochtein B. Diversity of Floral Visitors in Apple Orchards: Influence on Fruit Characteristics Depends on Apple Cultivar. NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 49:511-524. [PMID: 32162245 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-020-00762-1] [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: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Most cultivars of apple trees are highly dependent on insects for successful pollination and fruit production. In this study, we evaluated the insect diversity in apple orchards of southern Brazil and verified whether or not there is a relationship between the diversity of insect visitors and the characteristics (weight, seed number, and symmetry) of the fruits of 'Fuji' and 'Gala' apples produced by the orchards. We also evaluated the diversity of insects on flowering weeds within apple orchards and compared it with the apple flowers. Diversity of anthophilous insects was low, in general, and differed between the regions. Furthermore, regarding insect diversity, orchards were grouped by management system: organic orchards were more similar to each other than to conventional orchards. The insect diversity of weed flowers was higher than apple flowers, but insect abundance was greater on apple flowers, suggesting that weeds may increase insect diversity within apple orchards and may sustain pollinators. We found a positive effect of insect diversity on the number of seeds of 'Fuji' apples and of honeybee abundance on their weight, suggesting that honeybee management is important in the studied areas. In contrast, we found no significant effect of insect diversity and abundance on 'Gala' apple characteristics. Despite this, the analyses of the seeds of 'Gala' apples indicate that the orchards may suffer a pollination deficit, which could be overcome by improving insect pollination. These results reinforce previous findings that insect diversity is important for apple yield, but its influence varies with cultivar.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Nunes-Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução da Biodiversidade, Escola de Ciência, , Pontifícia Univ Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brasil.
| | - S Witter
- Laboratório e Museu de Entomologia, Departamento de Diagnóstico e Pesquisa Agropecuária, Secretaria de Agricultura, Pecuária e Desenvolvimento Rural, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - J M da Rosa
- Departamento de Fitossanidade, Univ Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brasil
| | - R Halinski
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução da Biodiversidade, Escola de Ciência, , Pontifícia Univ Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brasil
| | - L M Schlemmer
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas - Bioquímica, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde, Univ Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
| | - C J Arioli
- Empresa de Pesquisa Agropecuária e Extensão Rural de Santa Catarina, São Joaquim, Brasil
| | - J D Ramos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução da Biodiversidade, Escola de Ciência, , Pontifícia Univ Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brasil
| | - M Botton
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Centro Nacional de Pesquisa de Uva e Vinho, Bento Gonçalves, Brasil
| | - B Blochtein
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ecologia e Evolução da Biodiversidade, Escola de Ciência, , Pontifícia Univ Católica do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brasil
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10
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Al-Abdi S, Aljughaiman A, Alrashidi J, Aldarwish M, Zekri A, Alshamari F. A systematic comparison between infant formula compositions using the Bray-Curtis Similarity Index. Int J Pediatr Adolesc Med 2020; 7:45-52. [PMID: 32373702 PMCID: PMC7193073 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpam.2020.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Making an informed choice between the available infant formulas is challenging, as there is no unbiased tool allowing a systematic comparison between the very long lists of infant formula compositions. AIM The aim is to present the Bray-Curtis Similarity Index (BCSI) as a tool for systematic comparison between standard stage-1 infant formula (SS-1-IF) compositions. METHODS We obtained the nutrient levels from the packaging labels of 23 SS-1-IFs available in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, in April 2018. The international legislations that launched infant formula standards endorse targeting the minimum rather than the maximum proposed nutrients levels. Thus, we blindly compared between displayed nutrients levels on each of the 23-studied SS-1-IF and the minimum international proposed nutrient levels via using the BCSI. RESULTS The range of the total displayed components was 38-57. Except for docosahexaenoic acid, all displayed components were within the standard recommended range. The BCSI summarized all displayed nutrients in a single number. The BCSI of the studied SS-1-IF ranged from 0.4141 to 0.79730. We ranked the 23 studied SS-1-IFs based on the higher BCSI is the closer to the minimum proposed nutrient levels. A dendrogram segregated the SS-1-IFs into four clusters based on their BSCI and total numbers of all displayed components. CONCLUSIONS We think the BCSI is an appropriate tool for a systematic comparison between SS-1-IFs compositions and may help for choosing a SS-1-IF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Al-Abdi
- Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Hospital, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Aljughaiman
- Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Hospital, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jaber Alrashidi
- Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Hospital, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Manar Aldarwish
- Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Hospital, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa Zekri
- Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Hospital, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Falah Alshamari
- Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Hospital, Ministry of the National Guard-Health Affairs, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Sáez A, Aizen MA, Medici S, Viel M, Villalobos E, Negri P. Bees increase crop yield in an alleged pollinator-independent almond variety. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3177. [PMID: 32081891 PMCID: PMC7035345 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59995-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild pollinators are declining and the number of managed honey bee colonies is growing slower than agricultural demands for pollination. Because of these contrasting trends in pollinator demand and availability, breeding programs for many pollinator-dependent crops have focused on reducing the need for pollinators. Although numerous crop varieties are now available in the market with the label of pollinator-independent, the real dependence of these varieties on pollinators is mostly unknown. We evaluated the hypothesis of pollinator independence in the Independence almond variety, the fastest growing variety in California that is the main almond production region in the world. In this presumed pollinator-independent variety, we measured the effect of honey bees on fruit set, yield, and kernel nutritional quality at tree level. Fruit set was 60% higher in bee-pollinated than bee-isolated trees, which translated into a 20% increase in kernel yield. Despite its effect on almond production, there was no evidence that bee visitation affected almond nutritional quality. Based on these results, we recommend the use of bees, whether they are wild or managed, to maximize yield even in self-fertile almond varieties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustin Sáez
- Grupo de Ecología de la Polinización, INIBIOMA, CONICET-Universidad Nacional del Comahue, San Carlos de Bariloche, Rio Negro, Argentina.
| | - Marcelo A Aizen
- Grupo de Ecología de la Polinización, INIBIOMA, CONICET-Universidad Nacional del Comahue, San Carlos de Bariloche, Rio Negro, Argentina
| | - Sandra Medici
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS) (IIPROSAM-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Funes 3350, CP 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Matias Viel
- Beeflow Inc. - Smart Pollination Services, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ethel Villalobos
- Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, 96822, USA
| | - Pedro Negri
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS) (IIPROSAM-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Funes 3350, CP 7600, Mar del Plata, Argentina
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12
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Richards TE, Kämper W, Trueman SJ, Wallace HM, Ogbourne SM, Brooks PR, Nichols J, Hosseini Bai S. Relationships between Nut Size, Kernel Quality, Nutritional Composition and Levels of Outcrossing in Three Macadamia Cultivars. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 9:E228. [PMID: 32053871 PMCID: PMC7076547 DOI: 10.3390/plants9020228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Tree nuts play an important role in healthy diets, but their economic value and nutritional quality may be affected by their size and paternity. We assessed relationships between nut size and kernel recovery, the incidence of whole kernels, fatty acid composition and mineral nutrient concentrations in three macadamia cultivars, "Daddow", "816" and "A4". We determined to what extent differences in nut size and quality were the result of different levels of cross- or self-paternity. Small nuts of all cultivars had lower kernel recovery than large nuts, and small nuts provided lower incidence of whole kernels in "Daddow" and "A4". Small kernels had a lower relative abundance of the saturated fatty acid, palmitic acid, in all cultivars and higher relative abundance of the unsaturated fatty acid, oleic acid, in "Daddow" and "A4". Small kernels had higher concentrations of many essential nutrients such as nitrogen and calcium, although potassium concentrations were lower in small kernels. Most nuts arose from cross-pollination. Therefore, nut size and kernel quality were not related to different levels of cross- and self-paternity. Identified cross-paternity was 88%, 78% and 90%, and identified self-paternity was 3%, 2% and 0%, for "Daddow", "816" and "A4", respectively. Small macadamia kernels are at least as nutritious as large macadamia kernels. High levels of cross-paternity confirmed that many macadamia cultivars are predominantly outcrossing. Macadamia growers may need to closely inter-plant cultivars and manage beehives to maximise cross-pollination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarran E. Richards
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia; (T.E.R.); (W.K.); (H.M.W.); (S.M.O.); (P.R.B.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
| | - Wiebke Kämper
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia; (T.E.R.); (W.K.); (H.M.W.); (S.M.O.); (P.R.B.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
- Department of Animal Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity, Ruhr-University Bochum, 44780 Bochum, Germany
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Stephen J. Trueman
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia; (T.E.R.); (W.K.); (H.M.W.); (S.M.O.); (P.R.B.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Helen M. Wallace
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia; (T.E.R.); (W.K.); (H.M.W.); (S.M.O.); (P.R.B.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Steven M. Ogbourne
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia; (T.E.R.); (W.K.); (H.M.W.); (S.M.O.); (P.R.B.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
| | - Peter R. Brooks
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia; (T.E.R.); (W.K.); (H.M.W.); (S.M.O.); (P.R.B.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
| | - Joel Nichols
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia; (T.E.R.); (W.K.); (H.M.W.); (S.M.O.); (P.R.B.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Shahla Hosseini Bai
- Genecology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, QLD 4558, Australia; (T.E.R.); (W.K.); (H.M.W.); (S.M.O.); (P.R.B.); (J.N.); (S.H.B.)
- Environmental Futures Research Institute, School of Environment and Science, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, CQ University, Bundaberg, QLD 4670, Australia
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Barbosa MDM, Carneiro LT, Pereira MFDCDS, Rodriguez CZ, Chagas TRF, Moya W, Bergamini LL, Mancini MCS, Paes ND, Giraldo LCP. Future scenarios of land-use-cover effects on pollination supply and demand in São Paulo State, Brazil. BIOTA NEOTROPICA 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1676-0611-bn-2019-0906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Abstract: Rapid land-use/land cover changes (LULCC) have led to habitat loss and fragmentation in the natural forest areas, which are mainly due to the intense and rapid expansion of urban areas and intense agricultural management. These processes are strongly threatening biodiversity maintenance and the ecosystem services provided by them. Among the ecosystem services under threat, pollination has been widely studied since this service is essential to promote food production and, therefore, human well-being. In a scenario of increasing LULCC it is crucial to understand the interplay between these changes, pollination demand by insect-dependent crops and pollinator availability to ensure these ecosystem services meet the increased demand for food production. In this study, we developed a conceptual model to disentangle the relationships between human-nature, especially LULCC, and its consequences, to the delivery of pollination service. We also presented a case study in the Brazilian São Paulo state, where we modeled the effects of predicted LULCC associated to agriculture expansion between the years 2012 and 2030 on pollinator demand by crops and pollinator supply, for fourteen economically important crops. Additionally, we systematized an expert-based Ecosystem Service matrix to estimate the influences of LULCC on the provision of pollination. Our results showed that by 2030, the demand for pollination will increase by 40% on average, while pollinator supply, estimated using suitability values for the different land-use/cover classes, will show, on average, a 3% decrease. Our results highlight the importance of considering the dialogue among stakeholders, governments, institutions, and scientists to find alternatives and strategies to promote pollinator-friendly practices and safeguard the provision of pollination services in a future under LULCC.
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14
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Cunningham SA, Evans MJ, Neave M, Armstrong J, Barton PS. Pollination and resource limitation as interacting constraints on almond fruit set. PLANT BIOLOGY (STUTTGART, GERMANY) 2020; 22:113-119. [PMID: 31520511 DOI: 10.1111/plb.13045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Pollination and resource availability are factors determining reproductive success of plants, and in agriculture these factors influence yield of fruit-bearing crops. Our understanding of the importance of crop pollination is fast improving, but less is known about how the interaction between pollination and resources constrains fruit production. We conducted an experiment with almond trees (Prunus dulcis) to examine how the number of flowers, light availability and competition for resources affected nut (fruit) production on individual spurs (fruit-bearing structures) exposed to open-pollination or hand-pollination. We found a positive relationship between flower number and nut number on spurs with up to four flowers, but no further benefit after four flowers, suggesting a resource threshold expressed by individual spurs. Spurs with few flowers increased the conversion rate of flowers to nuts when supplemented with hand-pollination, but spurs with more flowers were more likely to achieve the threshold number of nuts even under open-pollination. Our experiment included a further treatment involving spraying whole trees with pollen. This treatment reduced nut production by spurs with many flowers and high light availability, suggesting competition is experienced by well-resourced spurs when resources need to be shared among developing nuts across the whole tree. Our study supports the hypothesis that excess flower production in fruit trees increases the potential for fruit production when pollinator and resource availability is variable (bet-hedging). Spurs with more flowers typically produce more nuts (within a limited range), but only if both resources and pollen supply increase with flower number. For almond growers, a focus on maintaining high flower numbers, especially in high light regions of the canopy, is the foundation for high levels of production. Strategies to lift flower number and light are complicated by trade-offs inherent in tree architecture and orchard design. However, fruit set would be lifted above that achieved by current practice by an increase in the pollination rate of flowers.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Cunningham
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - M J Evans
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - M Neave
- Land and Water, CSIRO, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - J Armstrong
- Land and Water, CSIRO, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - P S Barton
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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15
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Samnegård U, Hambäck PA, Smith HG. Pollination treatment affects fruit set and modifies marketable and storable fruit quality of commercial apples. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2019; 6:190326. [PMID: 31903195 PMCID: PMC6936272 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.190326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Insect-mediated pollination increases yields of many crop species and some evidence suggests that it also influences crop quality. However, the mechanistic linkages between insect-mediated pollination and crop quality are poorly known. In this study, we explored how different pollination treatments affected fruit set, dry matter content (DMC), mineral content and storability of apples. Apple flowers supplementary pollinated with compatible pollen resulted in higher initial fruit set rates, higher fruit DMC and a tendency for lower fruit potassium (K) : calcium (Ca) ratio than flowers that received natural or no pollination. These variables are related to desirable quality aspects, because higher DMC is connected to higher consumer preference and lower K : Ca ratio is related to lower incidence of postharvest disorders during storage. Using structural equation modelling, we showed an indirect effect of pollination treatment on storability, however mediated by complex interactions between fruit set, fruit weight and K : Ca ratio. The concentrations of several elements in apples (K, zinc, magnesium) were affected by the interaction between pollination treatment and apple weight, indicating that pollination affects element allocation into fruits. In conclusion, our study shows that pollination and the availability of compatible pollen needs to be considered in the management of orchard systems, not only to increase fruit set, but also to increase the quality and potentially the storability of apples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrika Samnegård
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Research, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden
- Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden
| | - Peter A. Hambäck
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik G. Smith
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Research, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden
- Department of Biology, Lund University, 223 62 Lund, Sweden
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16
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Adamidis GC, Cartar RV, Melathopoulos AP, Pernal SF, Hoover SE. Pollinators enhance crop yield and shorten the growing season by modulating plant functional characteristics: A comparison of 23 canola varieties. Sci Rep 2019; 9:14208. [PMID: 31578408 PMCID: PMC6775066 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-50811-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Insect pollination of flowers should change the within-season allocation of resources in plants. But the nature of this life-history response, particularly regarding allocation to roots, photosynthetic structures, and flowers, is empirically unresolved. This study uses a greenhouse experiment to investigate the effect of insect pollination on the reproductive output of 23 varieties of a globally important crop-canola (Brassica napus). Overall, insect pollination modified the functional characteristics (flower timing & effort, plant size & shape, seed packaging, root biomass) of canola, increasing seed production and quality, and pollinator dependence. Reproductive output and pollinator dependence were defined by strong trait trade-offs, which ranged from more pollinator-dependent plants favouring early reproductive effort, to less pollinator-dependent plants favouring a prolonged phenology with smaller plant size and lower seed quality. Seed production decreased with pollinator dependence in the absence of pollinators. The agricultural preference for hybrid varieties will increase seed production compared to open-pollinated varieties, but, even so, pollinators typically enhance seed production of both types. Our study elucidates how insect pollination alters the character and function of a globally important crop, supporting optimization of yield via intensification of insect pollination, and highlights the beneficial effects of insect pollination early in the season.
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Affiliation(s)
- George C Adamidis
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
| | - Ralph V Cartar
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | | | - Stephen F Pernal
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Beaverlodge Research Farm, Beaverlodge, AB, Canada
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17
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McCravy KW. A Review of Sampling and Monitoring Methods for Beneficial Arthropods in Agroecosystems. INSECTS 2018; 9:E170. [PMID: 30477100 PMCID: PMC6315443 DOI: 10.3390/insects9040170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 11/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Beneficial arthropods provide many important ecosystem services. In agroecosystems, pollination and control of crop pests provide benefits worth billions of dollars annually. Effective sampling and monitoring of these beneficial arthropods is essential for ensuring their short- and long-term viability and effectiveness. There are numerous methods available for sampling beneficial arthropods in a variety of habitats, and these methods can vary in efficiency and effectiveness. In this paper I review active and passive sampling methods for non-Apis bees and arthropod natural enemies of agricultural pests, including methods for sampling flying insects, arthropods on vegetation and in soil and litter environments, and estimation of predation and parasitism rates. Sample sizes, lethal sampling, and the potential usefulness of bycatch are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth W McCravy
- Department of Biological Sciences, Western Illinois University, 1 University Circle, Macomb, IL 61455, USA.
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18
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Ramos DDL, Bustamante MMC, Silva FDDSE, Carvalheiro LG. Crop fertilization affects pollination service provision - Common bean as a case study. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0204460. [PMID: 30388124 PMCID: PMC6214648 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0204460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The demand for insect-pollinated crops is increasing. Conventional agricultural intensification heavily relies on increased input of fertilizers, which can have negative effects on local biodiversity. Such effects may be particularly accentuated in biodiversity hotspots that are naturally nutrient-poor. Ecological intensification of farming, i.e. practices that increase production through the increase of ecosystem services, emerges as an alternative to conventional intensification. For example, practices that boost abundance and diversity of crop pollinators can lead to substantial increases in cropland productivity. However, little is known about the synergisms and trade-offs between fertilizer input and such ecological intensification practices. Here we investigate interactive effects between fertilization practices and the provision of ecosystem services in a biodiversity hotspot where conventional agriculture is rapidly expanding (Brazilian savannas). We focus on a highly nitrogen-demanding crop species that benefits from pollinators (the common bean, Phaseolus vulgaris L.), for which nitrogen input greatly varies in the study region. Our findings show that positive effects of native pollinators on crop yield are most accentuated under low inputs of nitrogen (e.g. equal to or below 72kg ha-1). This interactive effect could be due to changes in flower visitor community composition or behaviour. Our study also suggests that landscape management practices that minimize isolation from patches of natural vegetation and maximize its cover nearby (within 500 meters) of production areas can increase pollinator and biocontrol agent abundance and richness. Overall, these results suggest that ecological intensification is a valuable alternative for common bean production in Brazil, and potentially other regions of the world. Land productivity can be enhanced if an adequate balance of chemical inputs and landscape management is achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davi de L. Ramos
- Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade de Brasília (UnB)—Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, D.F., Brazil
| | - Mercedes M. C. Bustamante
- Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade de Brasília (UnB)—Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, D.F., Brazil
| | - Felipe D. da Silva e Silva
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Sustentável, Universidade de Brasília (UnB)–Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, D.F., Brazil
- Instituto Federal de Mato Grosso (IFMT)—Av. Sen. Filinto Müller, Cuiabá, MT, Brazil
| | - Luísa G. Carvalheiro
- Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade de Brasília (UnB)—Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro, Brasília, D.F., Brazil
- Departamento de Ecologia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
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19
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Lotan A, Kost R, Mandelik Y, Peled Y, Chakuki D, Zemah Shamir S, Ram Y. National scale mapping of ecosystem services in Israel – genetic resources, pollination and cultural services. ONE ECOSYSTEM 2018. [DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.3.e25494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The Israel - National Ecosystem Assessment (I-NEA) project aims to present a comprehensive picture of the state and trends of Israel's ecosystem services across all ecosystems, by integrating existing data and information collected from a wide range of sources. Although there is a lack of information about the spatial distribution of ecosystem services’ provisioning in Israel, their mapping constitutes an important part of the assessment.
In this paper, we present a national-scale mapping of three ecosystem services, each of them implemented using different methods: 1) Genetic resources service, mapped using spatial observations of the Crop Wild Relatives species; 2) potential of pollination service, which is provided by wild bees, mapped using an expert-based habitat model related to land use and land cover; and 3) cultural service of recreation, mapped by analysing the distribution of geotagged digital photographs uploaded to social media resources. The derived maps visualise, for the first time in Israel, the spatially distributed values of the three ecosystem services. Supply hotspots with high values for all three services were identified, as well as spatial differences amongst the ecosystem services. These national-scale maps provide overlooked insights and can be very useful for strategic discussions of stakeholders and decision-makers but should be regarded with caution given existing knowledge gaps and possible inaccuracies due to data scarcity and low resolution.
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20
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Pitts-Singer TL, Artz DR, Peterson SS, Boyle NK, Wardell GI. Examination of a Managed Pollinator Strategy for Almond Production Using Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera: Apidae) and Osmia lignaria (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae). ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY 2018; 47:364-377. [PMID: 29471414 DOI: 10.1093/ee/nvy009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Pollination services provided by managed bees are essential for California almond (Prunus dulcis Mill.; Rosales: Rosaceae) production. Currently, pollination needs are met by rented or owned Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae; honey bee) colonies. Excessive demand on a challenged A. mellifera industry to provide strong colonies in early spring has caused sharp increases in rental prices over the past decade, inviting the consideration of alternative pollinators in addition to, or in place of, A. mellifera. Osmia lignaria Say (Hymenoptera: Megachilidae; the blue orchard bee) is an excellent pollinator of fruit and nut trees, but its pollination impacts when used in tandem with A. mellifera have yet to be evaluated in commercial almond orchards. A 2-yr study was conducted in California orchards to compare almond pollination and production using A. mellifera as sole pollinator to an alternative practice of adding O. lignaria as a co-pollinator with A. mellifera. Almond orchard managerial decisions, such as for pesticide use and irrigation intensity, vary between almond growing regions because of local climates. Therefore, both north-central and southern sites of California's San Joaquin Valley are represented. We compared bee visitation, nut set, and nut yield between orchards and between tree rows within orchards. Also, O. lignaria reproductive success was recorded to assure that these bees remained in the orchards as pollinators and to assess the ability to sustain these bees under regional orchard conditions. We demonstrated that augmenting large commercial almond orchards with O. lignaria can significantly increase nut set and sometimes nut yield in both regions evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Derek R Artz
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Pollinating Insects Research Unit, Logan, UT
| | | | - Natalie K Boyle
- USDA-Agricultural Research Service, Pollinating Insects Research Unit, Logan, UT
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21
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Klein AM, Boreux V, Fornoff F, Mupepele AC, Pufal G. Relevance of wild and managed bees for human well-being. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2018; 26:82-88. [PMID: 29764666 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2018.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Revised: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Wild and managed bees provide pollination services to both crops and wild plants, and a variety of other services from which humans benefit. We summarize the most important and recent findings on bees as providers of provisioning, regulating and cultural ecosystem services. With comprehensive literature searches, we first identified ten important bee species for global pollination of crops, which include wild and managed honey bees, bumble bees, orchard-, cucumber- and longhorn bees. We second summarized bee-dependent ecosystem services to show how bees substantially contribute to food security, medical resources, soil formation or spiritual practices, highlighting their wide range of benefits for human well-being and to identify future research needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra-Maria Klein
- Department of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Tennenbacherstr. 4, 79106 Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Virginie Boreux
- Department of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Tennenbacherstr. 4, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Felix Fornoff
- Department of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Tennenbacherstr. 4, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anne-Christine Mupepele
- Department of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Tennenbacherstr. 4, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gesine Pufal
- Department of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Tennenbacherstr. 4, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
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22
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Sutter L, Albrecht M. Synergistic interactions of ecosystem services: florivorous pest control boosts crop yield increase through insect pollination. Proc Biol Sci 2017; 283:rspb.2015.2529. [PMID: 26865304 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2015.2529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Insect pollination and pest control are pivotal functions sustaining global food production. However, they have mostly been studied in isolation and how they interactively shape crop yield remains largely unexplored. Using controlled field experiments, we found strong synergistic effects of insect pollination and simulated pest control on yield quantity and quality. Their joint effect increased yield by 23%, with synergistic effects contributing 10%, while their single contributions were 7% and 6%, respectively. The potential economic benefit for a farmer from the synergistic effects (12%) was 1.8 times greater than their individual contributions (7% each). We show that the principal underlying mechanism was a pronounced pest-induced reduction in flower lifetime, resulting in a strong reduction in the number of pollinator visits a flower receives during its lifetime. Our findings highlight the importance of non-additive interactions among ecosystem services (ES) when valuating, mapping or predicting them and reveal fundamental implications for ecosystem management and policy aimed at maximizing ES for sustainable agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Sutter
- Institute for Sustainability Sciences, Agroscope, Reckenholzstrasse 191, Zurich 8046, Switzerland Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Albrecht
- Institute for Sustainability Sciences, Agroscope, Reckenholzstrasse 191, Zurich 8046, Switzerland
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23
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Chopra SS, Bakshi BR, Khanna V. Economic Dependence of U.S. Industrial Sectors on Animal-Mediated Pollination Service. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2015; 49:14441-51. [PMID: 26575436 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b03788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Declining animal pollinator health and diversity in the U.S. is a matter of growing concern and has particularly gained attention since the emergence of colony collapse disorder (CCD) in 2006. Failure to maintain adequate animal-mediated pollination service to support increasing demand for pollination-dependent crops poses risks for the U.S. economy. We integrate the Economic Input-Output (EIO) model and network analysis with data on pollinator dependence of crops to understand the economic dependence of U.S. industrial sectors on animal-mediated pollination service. The novelty of this work lies in its ability to identify industrial sectors and industrial communities (groups of closely linked sectors) that are most vulnerable to scarcity of pollination service provided by various animal species. While the economic dependence of agricultural sectors on pollination service is significant (US$14.2-23.8 billion), the higher-order economic dependence of the rest of the U.S. industrial sectors is substantially high as well (US$10.3-21.1 billion). The results are compelling as they highlight the critical importance of animal-induced pollination service for the U.S. economy, and the need to account for the role of ecosystem goods and services in product life cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shauhrat S Chopra
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
| | - Bhavik R Bakshi
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio 43210, United States
| | - Vikas Khanna
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, United States
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24
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Nicole W. Pollinator power: Nutrition security benefits of an ecosystem service. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2015; 123:A210-5. [PMID: 26230351 PMCID: PMC4528997 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.123-a210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
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