Promoting Forage Legume–Pollinator Interactions: Integrating Crop Pollination Management, Native Beekeeping and Silvopastoral Systems in Tropical Latin America

Abstract

Major declines of insect pollinators are a worldwide concern. Such losses threaten human food supplies and ecosystem functions. Monocultures of pastures used to feed cattle are among the drivers of insect pollinator declines in Tropical Latin America. Plants of the legume family (fabaceae) are mostly pollinated by insects, in particular by bees. The inclusion of legumes in pastures (grass-legume system), as forage banks or the development of silvo-pastoral systems (SPS) with tree legumes, has been widely promoted to improve livestock production and soil fertility, but not to enhance ecosystem services from pollinators. Shortages of seed for the establishment of legumes as forage banks or within pastures or SPS remain a bottleneck for the improvement of ecosystem services brought about by pollinators within these systems and beyond. In this perspective paper, we provide an overview of forage legumes, their interplay with pollinators, and the ecological and socio-economic benefits of pollinator–forage legume interactions, at different scales (farm and landscape level). We further discuss the challenges and opportunities of scaling sustainably intensified cattle production systems that integrate legume forage-seed production with principles of pollinator ecology and native beekeeping. Finally, we provide interested stakeholders, policy-and decision-makers with a perspective on how such agroecosystems may be designed and scaled into multifunctional landscapes.

Beekeeping as a Tool for Sustainable Rural Development

“…Moreover, beekeeping can facilitate crop diversification and promote agroforestry practices, creating synergies between beekeeping and other agricultural activities. Agroforestry systems that incorporate bee-friendly tree species provide additional forage and habitat for bees while enhancing soil fertility, water retention, and carbon sequestration [24]. This integration of beekeeping with agroecological practices enhances the sustainability and resilience of rural farming systems, contributing to long-term economic viability and environmental conservation [25].…”

The Birds and the Bees: Producing Beef and Conservation Benefits on Working Grasslands

“…Managing grasslands to enhance plant biodiversity has the potential to benefit insect communities and the valuable ecosystem services they provide [54][55][56]. A growing body of research demonstrates that pollinators respond positively to habitat heterogeneity and floral resources [39].…”

Harnessing Biodiversity for Healthy Dairy Farms

“…Designing multispecies forage grass and adopting suitable cutting frequency management practices also can increase flower resources, support high populations of pollinator and enhance pollination services [48] . In addition, the integration of legumes into pastures may enhance pollination services and the development of legume-grass system or legume-grass-tree system has been demonstrated to improve livestock production and soil fertility [50,51] .…”