Effect of the electric field at 50 Hz and variable intensities on biochemical markers in the honey bee's hemolymph

Authors: Paweł Migdał, Agnieszka Murawska, Paweł Bieńkowski, Aneta Strachecka, Adam Roman

Year: 2021 Jun 24

Category: Environmental Sciences

Journal: PLoS One

Institution: PLoS One

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252858

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34166412/

Abstract

Overview

The increasing presence of artificial electromagnetic fields (EMFs) poses potential risks to honey bee populations. This study examines the impact of exposure to a 50 Hz electric field on biochemical markers in the hemolymph of honey bees.

Findings

  • Exposure settings included electric field intensities of <1, 5.0, 11.5, 23.0, and 34.5 kV/m over durations of 1, 3, 6, or 12 hours.
  • Significant decreases in the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were observed, worsening with longer exposure times.
  • The study also highlighted alterations in the concentrations of creatinine and albumin after exposure.

Conclusion

This evidence suggests that 50 Hz EMFs can disrupt important metabolic processes in bees, including protein metabolism and muscle activity, indicating a disturbing effect on overall bee health which could have broader ecological repercussions.

electromagnetic fields honey bees enzyme activity biochemical markers EMF exposure environmental impact
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