Effect of imidacloprid, profenofos, and abamectin on the flight activity of stingless bee, Tetragonula laeviceps Smith (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini)

Abstract

Abstract Bees play an important part in agricultural pollination. One of the hypothesized reasons of colony collapse disorder (CCD), or the sharp decline in bee colonies across the globe, is the extensive use of pesticides. The purpose of this study was to ascertain the impact of the insecticides profenofos, imidacloprid, and abamectin on Tetragonula laeviceps flying activity. A screen house of 6.5 by 6.5 by 2.5 meters in length, breadth, and height was used for the research. As part of the methodology, the following steps were taken: the land was prepared; tomatoes were planted; and insecticides containing the active ingredients imidacloprid 5%, profenofos 500 g/l, and abamectin 18 g/l were applied; the formulation concentrations were 4 g/l, 1 ml/l, and 2 ml/l, respectively. The findings demonstrated that, in comparison to abamectin 18 g/l, imidacloprid 5% and profenofos 500 g/l treatments considerably impacted the bee activity of entering and exiting. In addition, the duration and quantity of visits to flowers and plants following spraying were likewise impacted by the three insecticides. Besides, using pesticides can kill bees and have an impact on their ability to fly. Furthermore, this will hinder plant pollination and lower agricultural productivity.