The Warming Threat: Climate Change is Devastating Honeybee Populations
I. Rabeena
Department of Agriculture, Kalasalingam School of Agriculture and Horticulture (KSAH), Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (KARE), India.
A. Akash
*
Kalasalingam School of Agriculture and Horticulture (KSAH), Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (KARE), India.
S. Pragathy
Kalasalingam School of Agriculture and Horticulture (KSAH), Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (KARE), India.
A. Leo Infant
Kalasalingam School of Agriculture and Horticulture (KSAH), Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (KARE), India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Climate change, fueled by industrialization and deforestation, has far-reaching consequences, including ozone layer depletion and rising carbon dioxide levels. This has compromised ecosystem health and biodiversity, ultimately impacting bee colonies and threatening their survival. Honeybees represent the most essential pollinators for agricultural crops worldwide, significantly contributing to biodiversity through the pollination of numerous plant species. Their adaptability has enabled them to thrive in diverse climates worldwide. Climate change may impact honeybee development, but their genetic variability and plasticity could facilitate adaptation to new environmental conditions. However, the exact effects of climate change on honeybees remain uncertain. This article explores the potential consequences of climate change on honeybee behavior, physiology, distribution, and disease interactions. To preserve the genetic diversity and valuable ecotypes of honeybees, conservation efforts are essential for maintaining global biodiversity.
Keywords: Climate change, beekeeping, pollination, habitat loss, forage