Crop Pollination by Bees, Volume 1: Evolution, Ecology, Conservation

The book explores the evolutionary and ecological bases of bee pollination, translating this knowledge into practical research-based guidance for using bees to pollinate crops. It emphasizes conserving wild bee populations and culturing honey bees, bumble bees, and managed solitary bees.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2021
Publisher: CABI Publishing

Since the second half of the 20th century, agricultural bee pollinators have faced mounting threats from ecological disturbance and the pan-global movement of pathogens and parasites. At the same time, the area of pollinator-dependent crops is increasing globally, with no end in sight. Never before has so much been asked of our finite pool of bee pollinators. This book not only explores the evolutionary and ecological bases of these dynamics but also translates this knowledge into practical research-based guidance for using bees to pollinate crops. It emphasizes conserving wild bee populations as well as culturing honey bees, bumble bees, and managed solitary bees. To cover such a range of biology, theory, and practice from the perspectives of both the pollinator and the crop, the book is divided into two volumes. Volume 1 focuses on bees, their biology, coevolution with plants, foraging ecology and management, and provides practical ways to increase bee abundance and pollinating performance on the farm. Volume 2 (also available from CABI) focuses on crops, with chapters addressing crop-specific requirements and bee pollination management recommendations. Both volumes will be essential reading for farmers, horticulturists, gardeners, researchers, and professionals working in insect ecology and conservation, and students of entomology and crop protection.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 189 x 247 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786393494
Edition number: 2 ed