Researchers Call on Citizen Scientists to Support ‘Plan Bee’
In celebration of World Bee Day, researchers at the University of Galway are urging citizens to support the monitoring of over 500 wild and native honey bee colonies across Ireland. This initiative, part of the ‘Plan Bee’ project, aims to gather crucial data to enhance conservation strategies for these essential pollinators.
The Importance of Monitoring Wild Bees
Citizen Science Contributions
Citizen scientists have already recorded 541 nests of the native honeybee species, Apis mellifera mellifera. The researchers at the Galway Honey Bee Research Centre emphasize the importance of continued monitoring. The collected data will be submitted to the National Biodiversity Data Centre, aiding in the understanding of bee survival despite the threat from the invasive Varroa destructor parasite.
Project Goals
Funded by Science Foundation Ireland, the project compares samples from wild colonies with managed and historical ones. It involves studying colony ecology, pathogen load, and bee genetics. The aim is to develop effective conservation strategies based on this comprehensive data.
The Role of Citizen Scientists
Locating and Monitoring Colonies
Researchers request citizen scientists to locate colonies rather than individual bee sightings. Some volunteers will become colony custodians, responsible for regular monitoring and reporting on the colonies' survival. Free-living bee colonies, defined as those surviving over two years in the wild, provide valuable insights into the resilience and adaptation of these bees.
Identifying Black Bees
The native Irish honey bee, also known as the black bee, is smaller than a bumblebee and dark brown to almost black. These bees can be seen foraging in damp or drizzly weather. Colonies are typically found in elevated positions, such as trees in old woodlands or in walls and roofs of buildings.
Conservation Efforts and Challenges
Threats to Native Bees
Ireland is a crucial habitat for the black bee, the last stronghold in Europe. These bees face numerous threats, including parasites, habitat loss, climate change, and hybridization from imported bees. Hybridization has increased from under 5% in 2018 to over 12% in 2023, risking the loss of pure native genetics and leading to undesirable traits like increased aggression.
Community Engagement
The Native Irish Honey Bee Society is actively involved in conservation efforts, hosting workshops on World Bee Day to educate beekeepers on rearing native queen bees and preventing the importation of non-native bees. The society aims to preserve the genetic purity and heritage of the native Irish honey bee.
Conclusion
By engaging in the ‘Plan Bee’ initiative, citizen scientists play a crucial role in conserving Ireland's native honey bees. Their contributions help researchers develop strategies to protect these vital pollinators, ensuring their survival and the preservation of Ireland's natural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the ‘Plan Bee’ initiative?
‘Plan Bee’ is a conservation project led by the University of Galway, involving the monitoring and recording of wild and native honey bee colonies to enhance conservation strategies.
Q2: How can I participate as a citizen scientist?
You can participate by locating bee colonies and, if possible, becoming a colony custodian to monitor and report on the colonies' survival.
Q3: Why are native Irish honey bees important?
The native Irish honey bee, or black bee, is vital for pollination and biodiversity. It has adapted perfectly to the Irish climate over 6,500 years and is at risk of extinction due to hybridization and other threats.
Q4: What threats do native Irish honey bees face?
They face threats from parasites like Varroa destructor, habitat loss, climate change, and hybridization with imported bees, which can dilute their genetic purity.
Q5: How can I learn more about beekeeping and conservation?
The Native Irish Honey Bee Society hosts workshops and provides resources for beekeepers to learn about rearing native bees and preventing the importation of non-native bees.
- #PlanBee
- #WorldBeeDay
- #BeeConservation
- #NativeBees
- #CitizenScience
