The Giant Noodle
DP Veteran
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- Mar 22, 2010
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Fish..... birds...... bees....... :scared:
CONTINUED: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/03/bumblebees-study-us-decline
The abundance of four common species of bumblebee in the US has dropped by 96% in just the past few decades, according to the most comprehensive national census of the insects. Scientists said the alarming decline, which could have devastating implications for the pollination of both wild and farmed plants, was likely to be a result of disease and low genetic diversity in bee populations.
Bumblebees are important pollinators of wild plants and agricultural crops around the world including tomatoes and berries thanks to their large body size, long tongues, and high-frequency buzzing, which helps release pollen from flowers.
Bees in general pollinate some 90% of the world's commercial plants, including most fruits, vegetables and nuts. Coffee, soya beans and cotton are all dependent on pollination by bees to increase yields. It is the start of a food chain that also sustains wild birds and animals.
CONTINUED: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/03/bumblebees-study-us-decline