North American bumble bee populations are shrinking and showing signs of disease
In short: A three-year study of bumble bees across the United States found that several species are experiencing dramatic population drops. By comparing over 73,000 historical museum records with modern surveys of more than 16,000 specimens, researchers observed that the relative abundance of four specific species has fallen by as much as 96%.
The study also revealed that the geographic ranges of these declining bees have contracted significantly, sometimes within just two decades. Researchers found that these shrinking populations often have lower genetic variety and higher rates of infection from a specific microscopic parasite compared to stable species.
While these findings identify disease and low genetic diversity as key markers of the decline, the study notes that the exact causes and effects remain unclear. The research was limited by its observational nature, identifying patterns rather than proving direct causation.
Why it matters: The rapid decline of bumble bees is linked to a dangerous combination of reduced genetic health and increased disease.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Research: Cameron et al. (2011). Patterns of widespread decline in North American bumble bees. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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