Impact of Neonicotinoids on the Bees’ Population

This chapter presents an analysis of the impact of neonicotinoids on the bee population. Neonicotinoids are widely used pesticides that are toxic to bees and thus pose a threat to pollinators and bee-dependent ecosystems. The importance and use of neonicotinoids were discussed and the importance of studying their impact on bees was explained. Then, the characteristics of pesticides of this group and their various applications in agriculture and other sectors of the economy are presented. The results of scientific research confirming the toxicity of neonicotinoids to bees were presented. The methods by which these chemicals affect bee organisms and influence their behaviour, health and functioning of bees working in colonies are discussed. The adverse effects of neonicotinoids have been identified at the scale of individual beekeepers and their honeybee colonies. The consequences of neonicotinoid use on bee population dynamics and the role of these pesticides in bee decline and colony breakdown were analysed. The effect of neonicotinoids on biological diversity and ecosystems is an additional factor to consider. The effects of the application of this group of pesticides on other pollinating insects and harmless organisms, as well as the impact on bee-dependent ecosystems, are discussed. The chapter also contains an analysis of the existing legal regulations regarding the use of neonicotinoids and the related controversies. Actions taken to protect bees and alternative approaches to the protection of plants and pollinators were indicated. A summary and conclusions close the chapter, presenting the key results and findings. They point to the need for further research and action to protect bees from the effects of neonicotinoids, which are important for maintaining healthy ecosystems and ensuring the necessary role of pollinators in maintaining biodiversity.