A Scientific Response to Honey Bee Decline
In response to the alarming decline in honey bee populations, scientists at Washington State University (WSU) have developed a new artificial pollen substitute. This innovation is designed to sustain honey bee colonies even in the absence of natural pollen. Consequently, it addresses one of the major nutritional deficiencies contributing to colony collapses worldwide.
What’s Inside the New Diet?
The artificial diet, developed in collaboration with Belgian company Apix Biosciences, includes six essential sterols naturally found in pollen. Importantly, these sterols are crucial for bee development, as bees use them to build and maintain body tissues.
Promising Results in Lab and Field Tests
To test its effectiveness, researchers conducted controlled experiments in Belgium and field trials near Othello, Washington. Remarkably, colonies that consumed the new diet showed better health and productivity than those given standard commercial feeds or left to forage on their own.Boosting Bees’ Defenses
Moreover, Thierry Bogaert of Apix Biosciences emphasized that better-nourished bees are more capable of detoxifying pesticides. As a result, they also have stronger immunity to fight off viruses, bacteria, and harmful parasites such as the varroa mite.
However, while this artificial food marks a significant improvement over current alternatives, experts caution that it is not a complete replacement for natural pollen. Furthermore, wild bees—about 20,000 species—won’t benefit from it, as they depend on diverse natural sources for nutrition.
A Step Toward Sustainable Pollination
Nevertheless, this development offers a promising tool for beekeepers. It can help strengthen commercial honey bee colonies and increase their resistance to environmental stressors. Ultimately, it contributes to the broader goal of maintaining healthy pollinator populations and supporting global food production.
