Heavy metal pollution causes severe declines in wild bees
Wednesday, February 29, 2012 - 18:00
in Mathematics & Economics
A red mason bee female feeds on ragged robin. Wild bees are important pollinators and numerous studies dealing with pollination of wild plants and crops underline their vital role in ecosystems functioning. While honey bees can be easily transported to various location when needed, wild bees' presence is dependent on the availability of high quality semi-natural habitats. Some crops, such as apples and cherries, and many wild flowers are more effectively pollinated by wild bees and other insects rather than managed honey bees.