According to new research by the University of Stirling, a neonicotinoid pesticide can affect the behaviour of bumblebees by interferring with the type of vibrations they produce while collecting pollen.
Dr Penelope Whitehorn, who led the study, said: “We show that buzz pollinating bees exposed to the pesticide also collect fewer pollen grains.” The study suggested that pesticide exposure may impair bees’ ability to perform complex behaviours, such as buzz pollination. There are also fears that pesticides may be affecting the memory and cognitive ability of bumblebees.
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