Parasites, parasitoids, and hive products that are potentially deleterious to wild and commercially raised bumble bees (Bombus spp.) in North America

Abstract

Bumble bees are important pollinators for a great diversity of wild and cultivated plants, and in many parts of the world certain species have been found to be in decline, gone locally extinct, or even globally extinct. A large number of symbionts live on, in, or with these social bees. We give an overview of what is known about bumble bee ecto-symbionts and parasitoids. We provide information on assessment of risks posed by select bumble bee symbionts and methods for their detection, quantification, and control. In addition, we assess honey bee hive products such as pollen and wax that are used in commercial bumble bee production, and highlight key risks and knowledge gaps. Knowledge of these potential threats to native pollinators is important and they need to be managed in the context of national and international commercial trade in bumble bees to prevent pest introduction and pathogen spillover that can threaten native bees.

Rearing of Native Bumblebee Species Bombus haemorrhoidalis for Greenhouse Pollination in Pakistan

“…Hence, it is essential to use specific bumblebee species that are suitable for commercial crop pollination services based on regional suitability [27]. It is crucial to recognize the potential risks to indigenous pollinators and manage them within the framework of both national and international commercial trade in bumblebees [26,28,29] because invasive parasites are the major reason for the decline of native bumblebees and other wild bees throughout the world [30].…”