Native bees, known for their crucial role in ecological systems, are facing threats from pesticides and the introduction of Africanized bee species. To combat these challenges and preserve native bee populations, researchers led by Guiomar Melgar Lalanne at the Biomedical Research Center at the Universidad Veracruzana focused on melipona bees in Veracruz.
Melgar Lalanne emphasized the importance of native bees for environmental conservation, particularly their role in pollinating cloud forests and tropical ecosystems. However, the use of pesticides and non-native species have endangered native bee populations. To address this issue, the research team collaborated with honey producers in Teocelo, Veracruz to study beneficial microorganisms present in native bee digestive tracts.
During their research, the team identified two key microorganisms – Weissella sp and Fructobacillus sp – with potential benefits for both bees and humans. These bacteria possess anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties that could help combat mite infections and viral diseases in bees. The researchers are now studying the encapsulation of these bacteria to explore their effectiveness against pesticides like glyphosate, which have been linked to declines in native bee populations.
The results of this research have significant implications for environmental balance and human health. By finding ways to support and increase the presence of native bees, researchers hope to contribute to forest preservation, agricultural fields’ productivity, and ultimately human health. Previous studies have suggested that certain bacteria may be able to digest pesticides and reduce harm to bees, highlighting the potential of microbiota research for insect conservation.
Native bees play a vital role in Mexico’s ecological systems. Yucatan and Veracruz are among states with high populations of native bees, including various species of meliponas. As researchers continue exploring ways to protect these important pollinators, their efforts offer new insights into sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation.
In conclusion, studying beneficial microorganisms present in native bee digestive tracts has shown potential benefits for human health as well as environment conservation efforts aimed at protecting these important pollinators from threats posed by pesticides and non-native species.
