Honeybee decline blamed on diesel exhaust

The decline of the honeybee has been puzzling scientists for more than a decade, with fears expressed by eminent ecologists that the human race itself may be at threat.

Now, research by the University of Southampton has found that exposure to pollutants in diesel engine exhaust — particularly nitrogen oxide — can affect the ability of honeybees to recognise floral odours that identify the flowers from which they forage.

The Southampton team found that diesel-exhaust fumes change the profile of floral odour, which could affect honeybees’ foraging efficiency and, therefore, pollination and global food security. Southampton University’s Professor Poppy said: “Honeybee pollination can significantly increase the yield of crops, and they are vital to the world’s economy.”