Electromagnetic fields disrupt the pollination service by honeybees

Abstract

Overview

We evaluated the influence of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on the efficiency of pollination by honeybees, utilizing both field and laboratory settings to explore changes in gene and protein expression related to stress and behavior.

Findings

• Significant stress response in honeybees due to EMF was evident with increased levels of heat-shock proteins and antioxidant activity genes.
• Behavior-related gene expression was altered negatively impacting pollination behavior.
• California poppies located near EMF sources attracted fewer honeybee visits and subsequently produced fewer seeds compared to those far from EMF sources.
• A complex relationship was noticed linking EMF exposure to plant species richness and abundance in a nuanced hump-shaped curve.

Conclusion

The exposure to EMF not only disrupts honeybee pollination efficiency but also contributes to the broader ecological challenge of decreased plant diversity and productivity. This research underscores the substantial risks EMF poses to natural pollination processes and the potential chain effects on plant communities.