Science updates: The synergistic toxicity of synthetic pesticides & honey bees
The synergistic toxicity of synthetic pesticides & honey bees
The study investigates the effects of four pesticides—Emamectin benzoate, Chlorpyrifos, Imidacloprid, and Acetamiprid—on honey bee eggs, larvae, and adults in Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan. The research, conducted under controlled laboratory conditions, applied these pesticides at regionally recommended concentrations and assessed toxicity through contact exposure.
The study found that all pesticides, except Emamectin Benzoate, had significant adverse effects on honey bee behavior, including agitation, narcotic-like symptoms, and reduced proboscis extension. Chlorpyrifos showed the highest toxicity against adult bees, while Emamectin Benzoate was the least toxic. For honey bee eggs and larvae, Chlorpyrifos, Imidacloprid, and Acetamiprid caused notable mortality, with Emamectin Benzoate again showing lower toxicity. The findings underscore the need for sustainable pesticide use that considers honeybee health and emphasize the lower toxicity of Emamectin Benzoate compared to other insecticides.
The introduction of the paper discusses the importance of honeybees in pollinating plants and their role in supporting economies, nutrition, and healthcare, especially in rural areas. It highlights the potential of apiculture, or beekeeping, as a low-investment, high-return agricultural alternative. The paper also notes the challenges honey bee colonies face, including climate change, land use, and pesticide exposure, which can accumulate in plant tissues and affect bees' well-being and behavior.
The paper's conclusion calls for a balance between effective pest management and the preservation of pollinator health. It suggests that the research contributes to understanding the impact of pesticides on pollinators and advocates for more environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
Reference:
Iqbal, S., Zhuo, Z., Ali, H., Xu, D., Niaz, Y., Shah, A. N., ... & Buttar, N. A. (2024). Exploring the synergistic toxicity of synthetic pesticides and their impact on development and behavior of Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.). Emirates Journal of Food and Agriculture, 36, 1-7.
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