Researchers study link between diesel fumes and destruction of bee colonies

Scientists are investigating the possible link between pollution found in diesel fumes and the global collapse of honey bee colonies. Researchers from the University of Southampton believe nanoparticles emitted from diesel engines could be affecting bees brains and damaging their in-built navigation skills. They believe this may stop worker bees finding their way back to the hive.There is also a theory that diesel fumes mop up flower smells in the atmosphere, making it difficult for the insects to find
food. Ecologist professor Guy Poppy and neuroscientist Dr Tracey Newman think nanoparticles are one of a number of stress factors
which could lead to a tipping point in bee health, which in turn could contribute to bee-colony collapse.They will now take part in a three-year, �156,000 study to find out more.Diesel road traffic is increasing in the UK and research from the US has shown that nanoparticles found in its fumes can be detrimental to the brains of animals when they are exposed to large doses explained Mr Poppy
We want to find out if bees are affected in the same way, and answer the question of why bees aren't finding their way back to the hive when they leave to find food." Bees are estimated to contribute billions to the world's economy, �430 million a year to the UK alone, by pollinating crops, producing honey and supporting employment, the researchers said.Yet winter losses of bees have led to a drop of tens of thousands of beehives year on year since 2007. The US has seen a 35% unexplained drop in the number of hives in 2007, 2008 and 2009, they added. A recent United Nations report and other studies have not identified the cause of bee declines.The team includes biologists, Nanotechnology researchers and ecologists, who will now test the behavioural and neurological changes in honey bees, after exposure to diesel nanoparticles. Chemical ecologist Dr Robbie Girling said: "The diesel fumes may have a dual affect in that they may be mopping up flower smells in the air, making it harder for the bees to find their food sources.
Recent research has revealed more about the effects of nanoparticles, enabling scientists to investigate this possible link to bee-colony.