Pollen Diversity Crucial for Honeybee Survival, New Study Finds
A new study, led by Professor Ingolf Steffan-Dewenter and published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, reveals the crucial role of pollen diversity for honeybee survival. The research, conducted by a team including doctoral student Giulia Mainardi, highlights the importance of plant diversity for honeybee colonies and, ultimately, human food supply.
The study shows that honeybee colonies have a higher survival rate when they have access to a wide range of pollen. This diversity is particularly important in summer, when natural areas offer a broader range of plants, and in autumn, when areas with high agricultural use, such as those practicing organic farming, flower strips, and intercropping, tend to have higher pollen diversity.
In Germany, regions like parts of Bavaria and the Rhine valley, and in France, areas such as Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and parts of southwestern France, are known for their high pollen variety. In Greece, the Peloponnese and northern Greece also provide essential pollen diversity for honeybees. Mainardi explains that a rich and balanced diet, ensured by this diversity, promotes the health and resilience of honeybee colonies, helping them to successfully raise new worker bees and maintain hive temperature, crucial for overwintering.
The research underscores the importance of preserving and increasing plant diversity to support not only honeybees but also other pollinators. By promoting pollination, these measures ensure productive harvests and ultimately contribute to human food supply. As winter approaches, honeybee colonies' access to diverse food sources increases their chances of survival, making pollen diversity a vital factor in their overwintering success.
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