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Pesticides put pollinators at risk, threaten global crop yields: Pant varsity study
Rudrapur: A recent study conducted by the entomology department at GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology in Udham Singh Nagar district's Pantnagar has raised concerns over the widespread use of neonicotinoid pesticides, linking them to a steep decline in pollinator populations – particularly honeybees – which poses a serious threat to biodiversity and global agricultural productivity.
The research, led by head of entomology department Pramod Mall, found that neonicotinoids and chemicals like fipronil are harming pollinators not only by impairing their reproductive abilities but also by disrupting their navigation and feeding behaviour. "Prolonged exposure, even at low concentrations, can severely weaken bees' immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections like Nosema and infestations such as Varroa mites," said Mall.
The study also highlights that rising global temperatures are causing a temporal and spatial mismatch between flowering plants and pollinators, disrupting pollination. "Pollinators, particularly bees, are facing a dual burden — climate-induced shifts in flowering patterns and the toxic effects of pesticides. This mismatch can result in failed pollination cycles," said Mall.
Researchers discovered pesticide residues in the bodies of numerous bees.
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Alarmingly, 11.2% of the tested bee samples were contaminated with imidacloprid – an insecticide made to mimic nicotine – while 18.7% contained its major metabolite, 6-chloronicotinic acid. "These chemical traces can lead to neurological impairment and even death in pollinators. We also found that certain fungicides, when present alongside pesticides, interfere with bees' detoxification systems, and create lethal synergistic effects," Mall added.
The researchers explained that the exposure pathways of pesticides vary depending on how and where they are applied. While pesticides sprayed on leaves or soil seep into nectar and pollen, which are then carried back to hives, contaminated water sources also serve as another route of exposure.
To mitigate the crisis, Mall advocated for reducing pesticide use and adopting eco-friendly alternatives. "We must embrace integrated pest management (IPM) techniques and explore biological control methods to limit pollinators' exposure to harmful chemicals," he said.
Echoing similar concerns, agri-scientist Anil Hafeez said, "If we fail to safeguard pollinators today, we risk collapsing tomorrow's food systems. Bees are not optional — they are indispensable allies in ensuring global food sustainability and ecological balance."
