In a world increasingly concerned with environmental issues and food security, bees emerge as silent protagonists of a vital balance for the maintenance of life on Earth. Small in size but giants in ecological importance, these insects are responsible for one of the most valuable environmental services: pollination. Without this fundamental process, most flowering plants would be unable to reproduce, directly affecting biodiversity and food production on a global scale.
The United States, with its vast territorial extension and diversity of biomes, is home to approximately 4,000 species of native wild bees, in addition to managed honeybees. This richness of species reflects the importance of these pollinators for American ecosystems and for national agriculture, which significantly depends on these insects to maintain its productivity and quality.
According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, about 75% of North American plant species require an insect—mostly bees—to move their pollen from one plant to another to effect pollination. The USDA notes that honey bees are America’s primary commercial pollinator, and more than 100 U.S.-grown crops rely on honey bees and other pollinators.
However, despite their undeniable importance, bees face growing threats that put their survival at risk. The indiscriminate use of pesticides, habitat loss due to deforestation, climate change, and the emergence of diseases are some of the factors that have contributed to the decline of bee populations throughout the United States and worldwide. This phenomenon, known as Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), has alarmed scientists, beekeepers, and environmentalists.
Given this concerning scenario, understanding the importance of bees, knowing the main species and their specific roles, and adopting preservation practices becomes not only a matter of scientific interest but an urgent necessity to ensure the sustainability of ecosystems and food security for present and future generations.
This article seeks to explore in depth the importance of bees for the environment and agriculture, highlighting the most relevant species in the American context and presenting effective methods for their preservation. By shedding light on these topics, we hope to contribute to raising awareness about the crucial role of these pollinators and inspire concrete actions for their protection.
The Role of Bees in the Environment
Bees play a fundamental role in maintaining terrestrial ecosystems, being considered one of the most efficient and important groups of pollinators on the planet. Their contribution goes far beyond honey production, extending to the preservation of biodiversity and global ecological balance.
Pollination: The Essential Environmental Service
The greatest ecological importance of bees is directly related to pollination, a vital process for the reproduction of flowering plants. During this process, bees transfer pollen grains from one flower to another, allowing fertilization and, consequently, the formation of fruits and seeds. It is estimated that more than 90% of flowering plants depend on animal pollinators, with bees being responsible for about 80% of this pollination.
According to the National Science Foundation, bees increase production of about 75 percent of our crop species. When a bee visits a flower in search of nectar or pollen, the pollen grains stick to its body. As it moves between flowers, it transports these grains, depositing them on other flowers. The pollen grain, when deposited on the stigma of the flower, fertilizes the ovule, giving rise to seeds and fruits.
For approximately 85% of flowering plants present in natural forests and woodlands, the action of pollinators is essential for their reproduction. Without this environmental service, many plant species would be unable to perpetuate, which would result in a drastic reduction in biodiversity.
Maintenance of Biodiversity
Bees are fundamental agents in maintaining terrestrial biodiversity. By pollinating a wide variety of plants, they ensure the genetic variation necessary for the development and reproduction of plant species. This genetic diversity is crucial for plants to adapt to environmental changes and for their resistance to pests and diseases.
According to Defenders of Wildlife, native bees alone provide over $5 billion in crop pollination services every year in the United States. The economic ramifications of this would be devastating if bee populations continue to decline.
Pollination carried out by bees directly contributes to:
- Forest regeneration: By pollinating native trees and shrubs, bees help in the production of seeds that will give rise to new plants, contributing to the natural regeneration of forest areas.
- Food production for fauna: Many animals depend on fruits and seeds that only exist thanks to pollination carried out by bees. Thus, indirectly, these insects sustain various food chains.
- Ecological balance: The interaction between bees and plants is a classic example of mutualism, where both species benefit, contributing to the balance of the ecosystem as a whole.
Environmental Bioindicators
In addition to their role in pollination, bees are considered important bioindicators of environmental quality. The presence or absence of certain bee species can indicate the state of conservation or degradation of an ecosystem.
Changes in behavior or in bee populations can signal significant environmental changes, such as contamination by pesticides, climate change, or habitat loss. Being sensitive to these changes, bees function as “sentinels” of the environment, alerting to problems that can affect other organisms, including humans.
Scientific studies have shown that the decline in bee populations is frequently associated with areas with high concentrations of pollutants or intensive use of agrochemicals. This correlation reinforces the role of these insects as indicators of environmental health and highlights the importance of their preservation not only for the maintenance of biodiversity but also for monitoring the quality of ecosystems.
Bees in Agriculture: Essential Pollinators for Food Production
The importance of bees goes far beyond their ecological role in maintaining natural ecosystems. In agriculture, these insects are fundamental to ensuring the productivity and quality of numerous crops, representing an inestimable economic value for global food production.
Economic Impact of Pollination
According to estimates from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), bees contribute to global food production by about $200 billion per year. This impressive value reflects the dependence of various agricultural crops on the pollination services provided by these insects.
In the United States, a survey commissioned by the USDA indicated that 100% of almond species, 90% of apples and blueberries, 48% of peaches, 27% of oranges, 16% of cotton, and 5% of soybeans depend on the actions of bees to prosper. This is just to mention some foods consumed by humans.
This data evidences the economic relevance of bees for American agribusiness, one of the pillars of the national economy.
Dependence of Agricultural Crops
According to the USDA, 70% of agricultural crops depend, to some degree, on pollinators. In the United States, more than 60% of cultivated plants – including those intended for human food, animal production, biodiesel cultivation, and fiber production – significantly depend on pollination carried out by bees.
Agricultural crops present different levels of dependence on pollination, classified into four main categories:
- Essential dependence (90-100% reduction in production without pollination): Crops such as squash, acerola, cashew, Brazilian nut, cupuaçu, custard apple, maracujá, watermelon, melon, and annatto do not produce fruits or seeds without adequate pollination.
- High dependence (40-90% reduction): Gabiroba, guava, red jambo, murici, cucumber, sunflower, guarana, tomato, avocado, jatropha, apricot, cherry, peach, plum, and araticum present a significant reduction in production when not adequately pollinated.
- Modest dependence (10-40% reduction): Various crops such as coffee, cotton, among others, present a moderate reduction in production without adequate pollination.
- Small dependence (1-10% reduction): Some crops are less dependent on pollinators, but still benefit from their presence.
Increase in Productivity and Quality
The presence of bees in crop pollination has shown notable increases in agricultural production. According to data from the USDA, sunflowers can have an increase of up to 75% in their production when adequately pollinated by bees. Apples can present an increase of up to 94%, while soybean plantations can increase their productivity by up to 25%.
In addition to the quantitative increase, pollination also significantly improves the quality of agricultural products, resulting in:
- Fruits of better quality and appearance
- Greater weight and size
- Greater quantity of seeds
- Better shape and uniformity
- Greater nutritional value
This improvement in the quality of agricultural products translates into greater market value and competitiveness, benefiting the entire production chain, from the producer to the final consumer.
Specific Applications in Agriculture
The integration of beekeeping in agriculture provides various benefits beyond direct pollination. Among them, the following stand out:
- Reduction in the use of chemical products: The presence of bees can reduce the need for chemical defensives in some crops, contributing to more sustainable agriculture.
- Partnerships between farmers and beekeepers: Agricultural producers establish partnerships with local beekeepers for the rental of hives, aiming at the pollination of their crops. This practice, common in the United States, has been gaining space especially in high added-value crops.
- Innovative applications: The application of propolis in water has shown positive results in reducing diseases in watermelon production, demonstrating the potential use of bee products beyond pollination.
- Proximity to native vegetation: The proximity of native vegetation in cultivated areas optimizes the pollination process, resulting in improvements in productivity and maintenance of agricultural harvests. This practice also contributes to the conservation of local biodiversity.
Challenges in the Bee-Agriculture Relationship
Despite the evident benefits, the relationship between bees and agriculture faces significant challenges. The main one is the extensive use of chemical products in the management of pests and diseases in cultivation areas. The strong odor and high levels of toxicity of these products have caused high mortality rates among bees.
Another important challenge is the expansion of monocultures, which offer abundant resources during flowering, but leave bees without food during the off-season. This forces these insects to travel long distances in search of food, compromising their health and productivity.
To face these challenges, it is fundamental to develop sustainable policies that incorporate the conservation of biodiversity and the promotion of crop pollination, considering the particularities of each region and the impacts of agribusiness on bee populations.
Main Bee Species and Their Importance in Pollination
The United States possesses an extraordinary diversity of bees, with approximately 4,000 species of native wild bees cataloged. This richness of species reflects the importance of these pollinators for the diverse American biomes and for national agriculture. Knowing the main species and their characteristics is fundamental to understanding their ecological role and developing effective conservation strategies.
Honey Bees
Apis mellifera (Western Honey Bee)
The Apis mellifera, popularly known as the western honey bee, is one of the most known and economically important species in the United States. Introduced to the country in the 17th century, the honey bee has become America’s primary commercial pollinator.
According to the USDA, honey bees are cited as pollinators of more than 100 different agricultural crops, standing out for their wide geographical distribution throughout the national territory, including in degraded areas with low diversity.
The introduction of honey bees completely changed the panorama of American beekeeping. Besides multiplying production and providing a gain in quality to honey and other derived products, these bees also came to develop an essential pollination role in various agricultural crops such as apples, pears, citrus fruits, melons, and kiwis, among other fruits and vegetables.
Native Bees
The United States is home to approximately 4,000 species of native wild bees, which play a crucial role in pollinating both wild plants and agricultural crops.
Bombus impatiens (Common Eastern Bumble Bee)
The Bombus impatiens, known as the common eastern bumble bee, is one of the most common bumble bee species in the eastern United States. It is a social bee that forms annual colonies and is an effective pollinator of various agricultural crops, especially those that require buzz pollination, such as tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers.
Megachile rotundata (Alfalfa Leafcutter Bee)
The Megachile rotundata, known as the alfalfa leafcutter bee, is a solitary bee that was introduced to the United States in the 1940s to pollinate alfalfa crops. Today, it is one of the most managed non-Apis bees in the country and is an effective pollinator of various crops, including alfalfa, canola, and various fruits.
Osmia lignaria (Blue Orchard Bee)
The Osmia lignaria, known as the blue orchard bee or mason bee, is a solitary bee native to North America. It is an excellent pollinator of fruit trees, especially apples, cherries, and almonds. Unlike honey bees, blue orchard bees are active in cooler temperatures, making them valuable early-season pollinators.
Other Important Genera
Andrena (Mining Bees)
Bees of the genus Andrena, known as mining bees, are solitary bees that nest in the ground. They are important pollinators of various crops, including apples, blueberries, and cherries. Many Andrena species are specialists, visiting only specific plant families.
Agapostemon (Sweat Bees)
Bees of the genus Agapostemon, known as sweat bees, are small to medium-sized bees with metallic green or blue colors. They are important pollinators of various crops and wild plants. Despite their common name, they are not particularly attracted to human sweat.
Halictidae Family
The Halictidae family comprises many species of bees, some of which present metallic colors that vary between green and blue. Despite being a still little-studied family, with identification of species often incomplete, it is known that they are important pollinators of crops such as peppers, tomatoes, cotton, eggplant, strawberry, and others.
Importance of Species Diversity
The diversity of bee species is fundamental to ensuring efficient pollination of different types of plants. Each species has specific morphological and behavioral characteristics that make them more adapted to the pollination of certain flowers.
For example, larger bees, such as bumble bees, are more efficient in the pollination of large flowers, while smaller bees can access flowers with narrow corollas. Some species are specialists in certain plant families, while others are generalists, visiting a wide variety of flowers.
This complementarity between different bee species ensures that a greater diversity of plants is pollinated, contributing to the maintenance of biodiversity and agricultural productivity. Therefore, conservation should not focus only on one or a few species, but on the preservation of pollinator diversity as a whole.
Bee Preservation Methods: Strategies for a Sustainable Future
Given the fundamental importance of bees for the environment and agriculture, and considering the growing threats these pollinators face, the adoption of effective measures for their preservation becomes urgent. Fortunately, there are various strategies that can be implemented by beekeepers, farmers, governments, and ordinary citizens to protect bees and ensure the continuity of their ecosystem services.
Sustainable Practices in Beekeeping
Sustainable beekeeping represents a commitment to the well-being of bees, the preservation of the environment, and responsible production. According to the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, this approach goes beyond the simple production of honey, integrating eco-conscious practices in all stages of the process.
Adequate Choice of Location
The first step for sustainable beekeeping is the careful choice of location for the apiary. According to recommendations from beekeeping experts, areas far from pollutants and pesticides, rich in biodiversity, where bees can find an abundance of nectar and pollen during different seasons of the year, should be prioritized.
The diversity of flora not only promotes a balanced diet for bees but also contributes to the production of richer and more flavorful honey. In sustainable beekeeping, biodiversity is considered sacred, and the protection of natural habitats and the promotion of healthy ecosystems are absolute priorities.
Non-Invasive Management
Adopting management methods that minimize stress and disturbance of hives is fundamental for the health of bees. This includes careful and less frequent inspections, ensuring that bees have enough space to grow and store their honey without feeling overcrowded.
Honey harvesting should be done with delicacy, always ensuring that bees have enough for their own feeding, especially during winter. Respect for the natural cycle of bees, avoiding practices such as excessive artificial feeding or manipulation of the queen to increase production, is essential for a healthy apiary.
Natural Control of Pests and Diseases
Instead of resorting to harmful chemicals, sustainable beekeepers use natural methods to control pests and diseases. Practices such as frame rotation, the use of physical barriers, and the selection of disease-resistant bees are fundamental to maintaining the health of colonies without compromising the balance of the local ecosystem.
Integrated management of pests and diseases aims to control the problems that affect bees in a sustainable way, reducing dependence on chemical treatments that can have negative side effects for both bees and the environment.
Responsible Use of Natural Resources
The conservation of natural resources in beekeeping can be achieved through various practices and techniques that aim to minimize the use of these resources and reduce environmental impact. Beekeeping experts suggest some important strategies:
- Water conservation: Implementation of rainwater collection systems, use of efficient irrigation, and reuse of water used in honey production.
- Soil preservation: Adoption of practices such as crop rotation, sustainable planting methods, and maintenance of adequate vegetation cover to protect the soil from erosion.
- Reduction in the use of inputs: Implementation of integrated pest management techniques and efficient use of energy, prioritizing renewable sources.
Creation of Native Bees
The creation of native bees is a growing practice that significantly contributes to the preservation of these species and to the pollination of native and cultivated plants.
The Xerces Society recommends the cultivation of native bees in gardens and rural properties as a way to contribute to the conservation of these pollinators. Species such as blue orchard bees (Osmia lignaria), alfalfa leafcutter bees (Megachile rotundata), and various bumble bee species (Bombus spp.) are some of the most indicated for creation in the United States.
However, it is important to emphasize that, like all wild animals, native bees should be created with respect for their biology and relevant legislation. Before starting creation, it is fundamental to seek information about the species, their specific needs, and the legal norms that regulate this activity.
Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Agriculture has a direct impact on bee populations, being able to both benefit and harm them, depending on the practices adopted. The implementation of sustainable agricultural techniques is essential for the preservation of these pollinators.
Reduction in the Use of Pesticides
The indiscriminate use of pesticides, especially neonicotinoids, has been pointed out as one of the main causes of the decline of bee populations throughout the world. Environmental organizations recommend avoiding the use of pesticides toxic to bees, giving preference to biological pest control.
When the use of chemical defensives is necessary, it is fundamental to respect the correct periods of application, preferably before flowering. This avoids contamination of nectar and pollen, reducing the risk of intoxication of bees.
Promotion of Biodiversity
The maintenance of areas of native vegetation close to cultivated areas is an effective strategy to promote biodiversity and benefit bees. These areas function as refuges for pollinators, offering food resources and nesting sites.
The planting of a variety of flowers, trees, and plants that bloom at different times of the year provides bees with a constant source of food. This practice not only benefits bees but also enriches the soil and supports local biodiversity.
Implementation of Ecological Corridors
Ecological corridors are strategies used since the 1970s to preserve fragmented ecosystems. They aim to connect isolated natural areas, facilitating the movement of animals, the dispersion of seeds, and the increase of vegetation cover.
For bees, these corridors are particularly important, as they allow them to move between different areas in search of resources, expanding their foraging territory and contributing to the genetic variability of populations.
Education and Community Engagement
Education and community engagement are fundamental for the preservation of bees. Awareness about the importance of these pollinators and the dissemination of knowledge about sustainable practices can have a significant impact on the protection of these insects.
Educational Programs
The implementation of educational programs in schools, universities, and communities is an effective strategy to promote awareness about the importance of bees. These programs can include lectures, workshops, visits to apiaries, and practical activities that allow people to get to know the world of bees up close.
The Xerces Society highlights that “education is fundamental for sustainable beekeeping. We promote awareness events and organize experiences to share knowledge about the fundamental importance of bees in the ecosystem and how we can protect them.”
Community Involvement
The involvement of the local community in bee preservation initiatives can have a significant impact. Actions such as planting bee-friendly gardens in urban areas, creating insect hotels, and participating in pollinator monitoring programs are concrete ways to contribute to the protection of these insects.
Environmental organizations encourage the use of applications to record occurrences of bees or cases of mortality, contributing to the participatory monitoring of these populations.
Public Policies and Scientific Research
The implementation of public policies aimed at the protection of bees and support for scientific research are fundamental to ensure the preservation of these pollinators in the long term.
Regulation of Pesticide Use
More rigorous regulation of the use of pesticides, especially those known for their harmful effects on bees, is an important measure for the protection of these insects. This includes the prohibition or restriction of particularly toxic substances and the implementation of application protocols that minimize the risk for pollinators.
Incentive for Sustainable Practices
Policies to incentivize sustainable agricultural and beekeeping practices can have a significant impact on the preservation of bees. This can include subsidies for farmers who adopt pollinator-friendly practices, support for the transition to organic agriculture, and certification programs that value products obtained in a sustainable way.
Support for Scientific Research
Support for scientific research on bees, their habits, needs, and threats is fundamental for the development of effective conservation strategies. Studies on the effects of pesticides, climate change, and habitat loss on bee populations can provide valuable information for the elaboration of policies and preservation practices.
Collaboration between research institutions, beekeepers, farmers, and communities can enhance conservation efforts, allowing the exchange of knowledge and experiences and the implementation of solutions adapted to local realities.
Conclusion
Bees are true guardians of biodiversity, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecosystems and food production. Their importance goes far beyond honey production, extending to the pollination of wild and cultivated plants, the maintenance of biodiversity, and global ecological balance.
However, these essential pollinators face growing threats that put their survival at risk and, consequently, the sustainability of ecosystems and food security. The indiscriminate use of pesticides, habitat loss, climate change, and the emergence of diseases are some of the factors that have contributed to the decline of bee populations throughout the United States and the world.
Given this concerning scenario, the adoption of sustainable practices in beekeeping and agriculture, the responsible creation of native bees, the implementation of public protection policies, and the engagement of society in conservation initiatives are fundamental to ensure the preservation of these pollinators.
Each of us can contribute to the protection of bees, whether through conscious consumption choices, the creation of favorable environments for these insects in our gardens and properties, or the dissemination of knowledge about their importance and the threats they face.
The preservation of bees is a complex challenge that requires the adoption of multiple strategies and the involvement of various social actors. By adopting sustainable practices and promoting awareness about the importance of these pollinators, we are contributing not only to their preservation but also to the maintenance of biodiversity, food security, and the balance of ecosystems on which we all depend.
References
- United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
- National Science Foundation
- Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation
- Defenders of Wildlife
- Planet Bee Foundation
- Articles published in scientific journals such as Apidologie and Journal of Economic Entomology