Australian Researchers are hoping a program tracking native stingless bees habits and hive health can safegaurd Australian horticulture.
Following the discovery of the Varroa mite in Australia last year, significant pressure has been placed on growers accessing the most common crop pollinator – that being the European Honey Bee.
Western Sydney University Professor James Cook said the project will identify the nutritional choices of stingless bees by detecting the pollen species and essential nutrients collected during their foraging activities.
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Bees play a key role in local Riverland Almond pollination each year, with bee shortages still a serious concern.
