A study conducted in Kenya shows that temperature increases lead to greater honeybee colony losses, but providing water can reduce losses by up to 10%. The research indicates a 36% average decline in colonies due to climate change, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies and education for beekeepers to mitigate these impacts.
A recent study in Kenya revealed that temperature fluctuations significantly affect honeybee colony losses during various seasons. The research found that beekeepers who provide water to their bees experience a reduction in colony losses by up to 10%. Over the course of a year, from October 2021 to September 2022, participating farmers reported an average loss of 36% of their honeybee colonies attributed to climate change. Honeybees are essential for pollination and agricultural productivity, with honey production adding to economic growth. The Western honeybee is globally recognized for its contributions; however, extended drought conditions and limited forage availability threaten its survival. An expert emphasized the importance of evaluating beekeeping education to promote adaptive strategies like water supplementation.
The yearlong examination involved 589 beekeepers across various climatic regions in Kenya, including coastal and semiarid areas, providing a diverse perspective on beekeeping under climatic stress. Notably, losses were higher during extreme hot and dry periods (up to 31.9%) compared to wet and cooler conditions (up to 20.2%). Scholars note the scarcity of research data addressing bee colony health in Africa, creating an urgent need for comprehensive studies on honeybee populations. “This study provides the first large-scale estimates of honeybee livestock decrease in Kenya,” stated Malena Sibaja Leyton, a co-author of the research.
In summary, the study highlights the detrimental effects of rising temperatures and climate variability on honeybee colonies in Kenya, suggesting that adaptive practices, such as water supplementation, can mitigate these impacts. It emphasizes the necessity for further research to enhance beekeeping strategies tailored to combat climate challenges. The findings advocate for informed beekeeping practices and long-term educational initiatives to promote resilience among beekeepers amid changing environmental conditions.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
