Histórico de uso e ação de agroquímicos sobre abelhas da espécie Apis Melífera

Abstract

The various species of bees account for over 70% of pollinators of crops and therefore are responsible for much of the pollination of agricultural areas, being extremely important for the production of seeds and fruits. Among these species, Apis mellifera is the main species used. Characteristics such as sociability, low defensibility, the smaller range of foraging flight and the sustainability of the colonies, makes it able for this purpose, which enables even the rent of Apis mellifera colonies for pollination of many crops. However, these insects are sensitive to the use of agrochemicals, such as inseticides and fungicides, and poisoning represents the main problem for beekeepers. The effects of these pesticides are contamination of honey, gene mutation, death of bees and possible species extinction. This paper reviews the information available in the literature on the sub-lethal effects of pesticides to pollinators, particularly in honey bees, with a view to interpret and correlate the data collected, evidencing the symptoms of bee poisoning and pointing to the need for monitoring of applications of pesticides and the origin and quality of bee products.