Pollination Service Market Outlook

The global pollination service market size was valued at approximately USD 9.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 14.7 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 4.9% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is driven by the increasing awareness regarding the importance of pollination for agricultural productivity, the rising demand for high-quality crops, and the growing scarcity of natural pollinators.

One of the major growth factors for the pollination service market is the escalating concern over the decline in natural pollinator populations. Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators are experiencing significant population declines due to factors like habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. This has led to increased reliance on managed pollination services. Managed pollination services ensure the effective and efficient pollination of crops, thereby enhancing agricultural yields and food security. Additionally, government initiatives and subsidies aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices are further propelling the demand for pollination services.

Technological advancements in the field of pollination services are also contributing to market growth. Innovations such as robotic pollinators, precision agriculture techniques, and the development of pollinator-friendly habitats are revolutionizing the way pollination services are delivered. These technologies not only improve the efficiency of pollination but also reduce dependency on natural pollinators. The integration of data analytics and IoT in pollination services is enabling farmers to monitor pollination activities in real-time, leading to better crop management and increased productivity.

The rising demand for high-quality and diverse crops is another critical factor driving the pollination service market. Consumer preferences are shifting towards organic and sustainably grown produce, which necessitates effective pollination. Pollination services play a crucial role in ensuring the production of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds that meet high-quality standards. Moreover, the expanding global population and the subsequent increase in food demand are compelling farmers to adopt pollination services to enhance crop yield and meet market requirements.

The role of Bee Breeding Equipment is becoming increasingly significant in the pollination service market. As the demand for managed pollination services grows, beekeepers are turning to advanced bee breeding equipment to enhance the health and productivity of their bee colonies. This equipment includes tools for hive management, queen rearing, and colony monitoring, which are essential for maintaining robust bee populations. By using specialized breeding equipment, beekeepers can ensure the genetic diversity and resilience of their bees, which is crucial for effective pollination. The integration of modern technology in bee breeding not only supports the sustainability of bee populations but also contributes to the overall efficiency of pollination services.

From a regional perspective, North America and Europe are leading the pollination service market due to the well-established agricultural sectors and high adoption rates of advanced farming techniques in these regions. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period, driven by the increasing agricultural activities and rising awareness about the benefits of pollination services. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also emerging as potential markets owing to the growing emphasis on improving agricultural productivity and food security.

Type Analysis

The pollination service market is segmented into managed pollination services and unmanaged pollination services. Managed pollination services involve the active management and deployment of pollinators, primarily bees, to ensure optimal pollination of crops. This segment is witnessing substantial growth due to the increasing reliance on managed pollinators in commercial agriculture. Farmers are increasingly opting for managed pollination services to enhance crop yields and ensure the production of high-quality produce. Managed pollination services also offer the advantage of controlled pollination, which is crucial for crops requiring specific pollination conditions.

Unmanaged pollination services, on the other hand, rely on natural pollinators such as wild b

1. The alarming loss of pollinator diversity worldwide can reduce the productivity of pollinator-dependent crops, entailing potential economic impacts. However, it is unclear to what extent the loss of a key native pollinator species affects crop production and farmer's profits.2. By experimentally manipulating the presence of colonies of honey bees and a native bumble bee species (Bombus pauloensis) in eight apple orchards in South Argentina, we evaluate the impact of losing natural populations of a key native pollinator group on i) crop yield, ii) pollination quality, and iii) farmer’s profit. To do so, we performed a factorial experiment of pollinator exclusion (yes/no) and hand pollination (yes/no).3. Our results showed that biotic pollination increased ripe fruit-set by 13 % when compared to non-biotic pollination. Additionally, fruit-set and the number of fruits per apple tree was reduced by less than a half in those orchards where bumble bees were absent, even when honey bees were present at high densities. Consequently, farmer’s profit was 2.4-fold lower in farms lacking bumble bees than in farms hosting both pollinator species. The pollination experiment further suggested that the benefits of bumble bees could be mediated by improved pollen quality rather than quantity.4. Synthesis and applications: Our findings highlight the pervasive consequences of losing key pollinator functional groups, such as bumble bees, for apple production and local economies. Adopting pollinator-friendly practices such as minimizing the use of synthetic inputs or restoring/maintaining semi-natural habitats at farm and landscape scales, will have the double advantage of promoting biodiversity conservation, and increasing crop productivity and profitability for local farmers. Yet because the implementation of these practices can take time to deliver results, the management of native pollinator species can be a provisional complementary strategy to increase economic profitability of apple growers in the short term.

Land-use change threatens global biodiversity and may reshape the tree of life by favoring some lineages over others. Whether phylogenetic diversity loss compromises ecosystem service delivery remains unknown. We address this knowledge gap using extensive genomic, community, and crop datasets to examine relationships among land use, pollinator phylogenetic structure, and crop production. Pollinator communities in highly agricultural landscapes contain 230 million fewer years of evolutionary history; this loss was strongly associated with reduced crop yield and quality. Our study links landscape–mediated changes in the phylogenetic structure of natural communities to the disruption of ecosystem services. Measuring conservation success by species counts alone may fail to protect ecosystem functions and the full diversity of life from which they are derived.

Agriculturally driven land use change threatens global biodiversity and has the potential to reshape the tree of life by favoring the persistence of some lineages over others. Yet it is unclear if loss of phylogenetic diversity compromises the delivery of ecosystem services. To address this critical knowledge gap, we combine extensive land cover, pollinator survey and crop data with a complete time-calibrated phylogenomic tree for this diverse bee community. Pollinator communities in highly agricultural landscapes contain 230 million fewer years of evolutionary history and loss of pollinator phylogenetic diversity was strongly associated with reduced crop yield and quality. Our study is the first to link landscape mediated changes in the phylogenetic structure of natural communities to the disruption of ecosystem services. Practices that measure their success only by the number of species conserved may fail to protect the full diversity of life impacted by these stressors.

1. Agricultural intensification and associated loss of high-quality habitats are key drivers of insect pollinator declines. With the aim of decreasing the environmental impact of agriculture, the 2014 EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) defined a set of habitat and landscape features (Ecological Focus Areas: EFAs) farmers could select from as a requirement to receive basic farm payments. To inform the post-2020 CAP, we performed a European-scale evaluation to determine how different EFA options vary in their potential to support insect pollinators under standard and pollinator-friendly management, as well as the extent of farmer uptake.
   

   1. A structured Delphi elicitation process engaged 22 experts from 18 European countries to evaluate EFAs options. By considering life cycle requirements of key pollinating taxa (i.e. bumble bees, solitary bees and hoverflies), each option was evaluated for its potential to provide forage, bee nesting sites and hoverfly larval resources.

2. EFA options varied substantially in the resources they were perceived to provide and their effectiveness varied geographically and temporally. For example, field margins provide relatively good forage throughout the season in Southern and Eastern Europe but lacked early-season forage in Northern and Western Europe. Under standard management, no single EFA option achieved high scores across resource categories and a scarcity of late season forage was perceived.
   

3. Experts identified substantial opportunities to improve habitat quality by adopting pollinator-friendly management. Improving management alone was, however, unlikely to ensure that all pollinator resource requirements were met. Our analyses suggest that a combination of poor management, differences in the inherent pollinator habitat quality and uptake bias towards catch crops and nitrogen-fixing crops severely limit the potential of EFAs to support pollinators in European agricultural landscapes.
   

4. Policy Implications. To conserve pollinators and help protect pollination services, our study highlights the need to create a variety of interconnected, well-managed habitats that complement each other in the resources they offer. To achieve this the CAP post-2020 should take a holistic view to implementation that integrates the different delivery vehicles aimed at protecting biodiversity (e.g. enhanced conditionality, eco-schemes and Agri-Environment and Climate Measures). To improve habitat quality we recommend an effective monitoring framework with target-orientated indicators and to facilitate the spatial targeting of options collaboration between land managers should be incentivised.
   

Here are a few use cases for this project:

1. Pollen Monitoring and Analysis: Beekeepers, researchers, and agriculturists can use this model to monitor and analyze pollen collected by bees in various environments, making it easier to study the impact of pollen diversity on bee health, local plant life, and overall ecosystem health.

2. Optimizing Honey Production: By tracking the types and amounts of pollen collected, beekeepers can identify the most productive plants for honeybees, enabling them to better manage their hives and plantings for improved honey production and hive health.

3. Pollinator Habitat Assessment: Environmentalists and conservationists can use this model to evaluate the effectiveness of pollinator-friendly habitats by assessing the diversity and quality of pollen collected by bees in a specific area, informing better strategies for improving pollinator habitats.

4. Pollen Allergen Detection: Healthcare professionals and researchers can use this model to study the presence of specific pollen types collected by bees in various regions, helping them better forecast and understand the effects of allergens on a population and develop preventive measures for allergy sufferers.

5. Pollination Efficiency Study: Crop producers and agronomists can utilize this model to study the pollination efficiency of honeybees and other pollinators in different agricultural settings, which can inform better crop management practices and potentially lead to enhanced crop yields.

Global biodiversity is declining under pressure of agricultural intensification and land-use change. Two-thirds of the agricultural lands is directly or indirectly devoted to the production of animal products. Replacing animal-based proteins by plant-based proteins can be an important step to a more sustainable agricultural system. Lupins (Lupinus sp.) are promising crop species due to a high protein content of up to 40 %, but crop yields are unstable in both quantity and quality. This might be due to a lack of effective pollinators, but the contribution of insect pollination to lupin crop yield is unknown. Here we studied for five varieties of two common lupin crop species (L. albus and L. angustifolius) which pollinators visit lupin flowers, whether this depends on nectar production, and what the contribution of insect pollination is to crop yield. We used a semi-experimental setup and placed bagged and open-pollinated plants in pots along an expected gradient of insect visitors and determined several yield parameters. We recorded 1355 pollinator visits of only eight bee species. None of the varieties tested produced nectar. Compared to bagged plants, protein yield increase of open-pollinated plants ranged from 3 to 11% depending on variety. Yield of open-pollinated plants was only consistently related to visitation of the large-bodied buff-tailed bumblebee (B. terrestris group; 59 % of all pollinators) with impact on seed set related yield parameters (number of seeds and pods) being generally larger than on seed filling related yield parameters (g/plant). Within the observed range, higher visitation rate of buff-tailed bumblebees increased protein yield of open-pollinated plants with 10-40 %. Visitation rates of the smaller common carder bee (B. pascuorum; 33 % of all pollinators), or all pollinators combined, were not significantly related to protein crop yield. This could indicate that only relatively large species are effective lupin pollinators. Lupins are generally considered self-pollinating, and therefore growers do not actively manage for insect pollination. Our results show that insect pollination, and in particular buff-tailed bumblebees, can contribute substantially to the crop yield, which suggests that management aimed at enhancing effective pollinator species can help to make lupin crop cultivation more profitable. Amongst others, such management should make sure that ample nectar is available in the surroundings of lupin crops, as lupin does not produce nectar.

Controlled-Environment Pollination Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global controlled-environment pollination market size reached USD 1.28 billion in 2024, reflecting the sector’s rapid evolution and growing importance in modern agriculture. The market is expected to expand at a robust CAGR of 12.6% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a forecasted value of USD 3.77 billion by 2033. This impressive growth trajectory is primarily driven by the escalating demand for higher crop yields, the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies, and the necessity to ensure food security in the face of declining natural pollinator populations.

Several factors are fueling the accelerated adoption of controlled-environment pollination systems globally. The increasing prevalence of climate variability, urbanization, and habitat loss has resulted in a significant decline in natural pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This has prompted commercial growers, research institutions, and vertical farms to invest in alternative pollination strategies within controlled environments. The integration of innovative technologies, including robotics and automation, has further enhanced the efficiency and scalability of these systems. Additionally, the rise in consumer demand for year-round availability of high-quality fruits, vegetables, and specialty crops is compelling producers to adopt controlled-environment agriculture (CEA), where precision pollination techniques play a pivotal role in optimizing yields and maintaining crop consistency.

Another key growth driver is the surge in global investments toward sustainable and resilient agricultural practices. Governments and private sector stakeholders are increasingly supporting research and development in CEA and pollination technologies to mitigate the risks posed by environmental stressors and pollinator shortages. The adoption of vertical farming and greenhouse cultivation is witnessing a significant uptick, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas, where space constraints and resource optimization are critical. These controlled settings offer ideal conditions for deploying advanced pollination solutions, thereby reducing dependency on external pollinators and improving overall productivity. Moreover, the integration of data analytics, sensors, and artificial intelligence has enabled real-time monitoring and optimization of pollination processes, further driving market expansion.

The controlled-environment pollination market is also benefiting from a growing awareness of the importance of pollination in ensuring food security and agricultural sustainability. Educational campaigns, industry collaborations, and government initiatives are fostering the adoption of pollination technologies across diverse geographies and crop types. The focus on producing high-value crops with superior quality attributes is motivating commercial growers and research organizations to invest in precise and reliable pollination methods. Furthermore, the emergence of new business models, such as pollination-as-a-service, is creating additional opportunities for market players to expand their offerings and reach. As a result, the market is poised for continued innovation and investment, with a strong emphasis on enhancing productivity, sustainability, and resilience in the global food supply chain.

From a regional perspective, North America and Europe are currently leading the controlled-environment pollination market, accounting for a significant share of global revenues in 2024. These regions benefit from advanced agricultural infrastructure, high adoption rates of CEA technologies, and substantial investments in research and development. Asia Pacific is rapidly emerging as a key growth region, driven by expanding urban agriculture, government support, and increasing awareness of sustainable farming practices. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing gradual adoption, supported by initiatives to improve food security and modernize agricultural systems. The competitive landscape is characterized by the presence of established players, innovative startups, and strategic collaborations aimed at driving technological advancements and market penetration.

Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global market size for Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service reached USD 610 million in 2024, with a robust CAGR of 13.7% projected through the forecast period. By 2033, the market is expected to attain a value of USD 1.82 billion, driven by a convergence of technological advances, increasing demand for sustainable agriculture, and the critical need to address declining pollinator populations. The market's upward trajectory is primarily attributed to the growing adoption of data-driven pollination solutions and the rising emphasis on crop yield optimization.

A significant growth factor for the Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service market is the rapid decline in natural pollinator populations, particularly honey bees, due to factors such as habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change. As agricultural productivity is highly dependent on effective pollination, especially for high-value crops, stakeholders are increasingly turning to managed pollination services to ensure consistent and reliable crop yields. The integration of technology, such as IoT-enabled monitoring and advanced data analytics, further enhances the efficiency and precision of pollination activities, making these services indispensable for modern agriculture. As a result, the market is witnessing increased investments from both public and private sectors, aiming to bridge the pollination gap and secure food production systems.

Another pivotal driver is the surge in global food demand, propelled by population growth and changing dietary preferences towards fruits, vegetables, and nuts, which are heavily reliant on insect pollination. Precision bee pollination services offer a scalable and sustainable solution for large-scale agricultural operations, horticulture, and greenhouse crops, enabling growers to optimize pollination timing and density for maximum yield and quality. The rise of agribusinesses seeking to integrate digital agriculture solutions, coupled with supportive government policies promoting sustainable farming, is further accelerating market growth. Additionally, the increasing awareness among farmers about the economic benefits of managed pollination—such as improved crop uniformity and reduced dependency on manual labor—continues to fuel market expansion.

Technological innovation remains at the core of the market’s growth, with advancements in sensor technologies, AI-powered analytics, and cloud-based platforms transforming the way pollination services are delivered and monitored. Companies are leveraging these tools to provide real-time insights into bee health, pollination rates, and environmental conditions, allowing for data-driven decision-making and proactive management. Partnerships between agri-tech startups, research institutes, and traditional beekeeping enterprises are fostering the development of integrated service offerings that cater to diverse crop types and farming environments. As the market matures, the focus is shifting towards enhancing service scalability, interoperability, and user-friendliness, ensuring that precision bee pollination becomes accessible to both large-scale agribusinesses and smallholder farmers.

Regionally, North America continues to dominate the Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service market, owing to its large-scale commercial agriculture, high adoption of agri-tech solutions, and strong research ecosystem. Europe follows closely, driven by stringent sustainability mandates and a well-established horticulture industry. The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market, fueled by rapid agricultural modernization, increasing awareness about pollinator decline, and government initiatives to boost crop productivity. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing gradual adoption, particularly in export-oriented agriculture and greenhouse farming. Overall, the regional landscape is characterized by varying levels of technological adoption, regulatory frameworks, and crop diversification, shaping the market’s evolution across geographies.

Service Type Analysis

The Service Type segment in the Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service market encompasses Managed Pollination Services, Pollination Monitoring, Data Analytics, and other specialized offerings. Managed Pollination Services represent the backbone of the market, providing end-to-end solutions that include the deployment, maintenance, and management of bee colonie

Honeybees interfere with wild bees in apple pollination in China

https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.mpg4f4r9n

Description of the data and file structure

Files and variables

File: bee_diversity_and_pollination_data.csv

Description:

Variables

• region: apple production area in China
• Site code: expeimental apple orchard code
• ADwild: the activity density of wild bee (individual/day/orchard (9 traps))
• Chaowild: the Chao-1 value of wild bee (Dimensionless)
• ADhoney:the activity density of honeybee (individual/day/orchard (9 traps))
• ADoverall: the activity density of overall bee (individual/day/orchard (9 traps))
• PCFset1:pollination contribution values for apple fruit set (%)
• PCWeight1:pollination contribution values for apple weight (g)
• PCseed1:pollination contribution values for apple seed (number of seeds)
• Open pollination fruitset: apple fruitset in open pollination (%)
• Open pollination weigh...

Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) is a globally important fruit crop that depends on insect-mediated pollination to produce quality fruit and commercially viable yields. Pollination success in blueberry is complex and impacted by multiple interacting factors including flower density, bee diversity and abundance, and weather conditions. Other factors, including floral traits, bee traits, and economics also contribute to pollination success at the farm level but are less well understood. As blueberry production continues to expand globally, decision-aid technologies are needed to optimize and enhance the sustainability of pollination strategies. The objective of this review is to highlight our current knowledge about blueberry pollination, where current research efforts are focused, and where future research should be directed to successfully implement a comprehensive blueberry pollination decision-making framework for modern production systems. Important knowledge gaps remain, including how to integrate wild and managed pollinators to optimize pollination, and how to provide predictable and stable crop pollination across variable environmental conditions. In addition, continued advances in pesticide stewardship are required to optimize pollinator health and crop outcomes. Integration of on- and off-farm data, statistical models, and software tools could distill complex scientific information into decision-aid systems that support sustainable, evidence-based pollination decisions at the farm level. Utility of these tools will require multi-disciplinary research and strategic deployment through effective extension and information-sharing networks of growers, beekeepers, and extension/crop advisors.

The global pollination services market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality agricultural produce and the growing awareness of the crucial role pollinators play in food security. The market, estimated at $2 billion in 2025, is projected to witness a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% between 2025 and 2033, reaching an estimated $3.5 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors, including the rising adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, the increasing prevalence of monoculture farming (which necessitates pollination services), and the escalating concerns about declining bee populations and the resulting impact on crop yields. Key players like Koppert, Biobest Group, and BioBee are driving innovation in pollination technology, offering a range of services including beehive rentals, bumble bee colonies, and other supplementary pollination solutions. Government initiatives promoting sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation further contribute to market expansion. However, market growth faces certain challenges. Fluctuating weather patterns, the spread of pests and diseases affecting pollinator health, and the high initial investment costs associated with implementing pollination services can act as restraints. The market is segmented by service type (e.g., beehive rental, bumble bee colonies, other pollination solutions), crop type (e.g., fruits, vegetables, nuts), and geographical region. North America and Europe currently hold significant market shares, but the Asia-Pacific region is expected to emerge as a key growth area driven by rising agricultural production and increasing adoption of advanced agricultural techniques. The continued development and adoption of innovative pollination technologies, coupled with effective strategies to mitigate the challenges, will be crucial in ensuring the sustained growth of this vital market sector.

We compiled studies on pollinator communities on multiple farm sites within an agricultural landscape that was characterized by a gradient in land use intensity and could be spatially characterized by a GIS land cover map. We identified 39 suitable studies on 23 crops in 14 countries on 6 continents based on knowledge of the authors and previous synthetic work. Twenty-six studies have been published in peer-reviewed journals, while 13 were unpublished datasets. Author(s) of each study provided 1) data on bee abundance or visitation, and bee richness for sampled farm sites, 2) spatial locations of sites, 3) GIS data on multi-class land cover surrounding each site, 4) estimates of floral resource quality and nesting quality for different bee guilds for land-cover classes depicted in GIS maps, and 5) local farm management practices (organic or conventional; high or low vegetative diversity). For each study, we applied a quantitative, mechanistic model to predict relative abundance of wild bees for each farm site based on foraging distances and landscape composition data that were coded to capture estimated differences in nesting and floral resources. We also calculated metrics of landscape configuration to characterize heterogeneity, aggregation, patch shape complexity, and inter-patch connectivity surrounding each farm site. We tested the relative importance of landscape composition, landscape configuration, and local farm management as predictors of observed wild bee abundance and richness. These datasets and analyses are used in: C.M. Kennedy, Eric Lonsdorf, Maile C. Neel, Neal M. Williams, Taylor H. Ricketts, Rachel Winfree, Riccardo Bommarco, Claire Brittain, Alana L. Burley, Daniel Cariveau, Luísa G. Carvalheiro, Natacha P. Chacoff, Saul A. Cunningham, Bryan N. Danforth, Jan-Hendrik Dudenhöffer, Elizabeth Elle, Hannah R. Gaines, Claudio Gratton, Sarah S. Greenleaf, Andrea Holzschuh, Rufus Isaacs, Steven K. Javorek, Shalene Jha, Alexandra M. Klein, Kristin Krewenka, Yael Mandelik, Margaret M. Mayfield, Lora Morandin, Lisa A. Neame, Mark Otieno, Mia Park, Simon G. Potts, Maj Rundlöf, Agustin Sáez, Ingolf Steffan-Dewenter, Hisatomo Taki, Julianna K. Tuell, Blandina Felipe Viana, Ruan Veldtman, Catrin Westphal, and Claire Kremen. A global quantitative synthesis of local and landscape effects on native bee pollinators in agroecosystems. In preparation, Ecology Letters.

Agroecological farming uses crop and non-crop plant biodiversity to promote beneficial insects supplying pollination and biocontrol services to crops. Non-crop plants (sown or weeds) are integral to supporting these beneficial insect species interactions. How the uplift of biotic complexity by agroecological management (crop diversification, ecological infrastructure) influences mutualistic and antagonistic insect interactions regulating the reproduction of non-crop plants remains less understood. Using a pesticide-free farm-scale (125 ha) agroecological experiment, we tested how the individual reproduction of pollinator-dependent, non-crop plant species with different flowering phenology (Cyanus segetum, Centaurea jacea) and their mutualistic (pollinator) and antagonistic (seed herbivore–parasitoid) insect interactions were affected by agroecological practices. Seed set and species interactions of replicate C. segetum and C. jacea randomly introduced to field margins was correlated with floral resource heterogeneity at focal plant (e.g., flower display size), local community (floral richness/abundance driven by sown wildflower or grass margins), and local landscape (crop diversification, area of semi-natural habitat or mass flowering crops) scales.
At the seasonal peak of non-crop floral diversity and abundance, antagonistic interactions weakly regulated C. segetum seed set with gains from pollinator activity predominating. Conversely, C. jacea, which flowered past the peak of non-crop floral diversity/abundance benefited from the promotion of seed herbivore parasitism and pollinator activity by the local landscape cover of semi-natural habitat and mass flowering crops. Synthesis and applications. Agroecological management produced spatial and-temporal gradients in crop and non-crop floral resources that interacted to modify pollinator or seed herbivore-parasitoid interactions and seed set of Cyanus segetum and Centaurea jacea plants. The degree of phenological overlap between C. segetum and C. jacea flowering and floral resources in the local community or landscape dictated the type and level of exposure to insect interactions influencing reproduction. Design of agroecological practices to deliver pollination and biocontrol services must consider how effects will vary with species traits and the ensemble of mutualistic (pollination) and antagonistic (herbivory, parasitism) interactions governing non-crop plant reproduction. Agroecological management supporting beneficial insect interactions may feedback to help restore functional non-crop plant populations and associated biodiversity, potentially reducing the frequency of management interventions (e.g., re-sowing wildflower strips). Methods Experimental design The experiment was performed (2019) at the INRAE CA-SYS platform (Bretenière, France, 47°19’06.7”N 5°04’17.6”E), an arable farm-scale system experiment (125 ha). This aims to test pesticide-free, biodiversity-based agroecological management utilising diverse spatio-temporal crop rotations (wheat, barley, corn, soybeans, peas, chickpeas, lupins, mustard, rapeseed, sunflower), tillage regimes (±) and planned ecological infrastructure (permanent semi-natural habitat, wildflower or grass-legume strips) (see Appendix 1 and Fig. S1; Vanbergen et al., 2020; Petit et al., 2021). Sixteen plots ≥150 m apart were established in the centre of wildflower (n = 10 plots) or grass-legume (n = 6 plots) field margins (species composition – Table S1) across the CA-SYS platform (Fig. S2). Into each plot, we randomly transplanted three triplets of C. segetum and C. jacea (nine randomly selected plants per species per plot = 288 plants), with individual plants within a triplet 50 cm apart and triplets separated by 1 m within a plot (Fig. S2). No permits or special licences were required for any of the fieldwork or sampling. Focal plant species Cyanus segetum (syn. Centaurea cyanus L.) and Centaurea jacea L. were selected as focal plant species because they are widely distributed in Europe, depend on pollinators for reproductive success, and attract seed herbivores (Tephritidae; Diptera) and their parasitoids (Hymenoptera) (Steffan-Dewenter et al .2001; Ouvrard et al., 2018). C. segetum is an annual, pseudo-self-compatible, archaeophyte species flowering May-July with a segetal habit (i.e., it grows in cereal fields) and often included in wildflower seed mixtures. C. jacea is a self-incompatible perennial that flowers between June and October occurring in field margins and semi-natural areas. C. segetum seed (http://www.arbiotech.com), was germinated (22 ± 3°C; 16h light: 8h dark) and maintained in controlled environment cabinets (04/02/-04/03/2019 at 8-10°C 12h:12h; thereafter 15-18°C) until transplantation into field plots (11-12/03/2019). C. jacea replicates were field collected (07-13/03/2019) at the pre-reproductive stage (rosette ~10 mature leaves) from nearby locations (CA-SYS platform: 47°14’32.2”N 5°05’11.8”E; Dijon: 47°19’06.7”N 5°04’17.6”E; Champdôtre: 47°10’42.5”N 5°17’02.0”E) and transplanted into the plots (12-15/03/2019) after washing their roots free of soil. Focal plant chemical quality To quantify the individual capacity for reproduction (seed set) according to their uptake of soil nitrate or ammonium, we took a random sample of mature leaves (~5 g) prior to the onset of flowering (13/05/2019) from each C. jacea/C. segetum. After oven drying (48h, 80°C) and milling (diameter ≤ 80 µm, re-dried 80°C, 24h), we used a Thermo Scientific FLASH 2000 Organic Elemental Analyzer™ to quantify the C/N content in 4-6 mg of these ground tissue samples. Sample injection and oxidisation (O2 under helium flow at 950°C) followed by reduction (Nox) and removal of excess O2/H2O (Cu at 750°C/anhydron) yielded N2, and CO2. Gas chromatography (porapak column 40°C in stationary phase) separated and detected (catharometer) the component N, CO2 and He. Integrated examination of signal peaks and calibration curves allowed determination of % N and % C dry weight (g). Mass flowering crops, non-crop vegetation and semi-natural habitat We quantified the abundance and species richness of the non-crop (dicotyledon) plants once per month (from May to August) in 16 2m x 100m transects along field borders centred on each focal plant plot (Fig. S2). Non-crop floral species richness and floral abundance (Table S1-S2) were recorded in six quadrats (2m x 50cm) systematically placed at 20m intervals along the transect. Flowering plant species (cumulative count) were identified (Appendix 2 for keys) and the total number of inflorescences (individual flower/umbel/spike/capitulum) per quadrat was derived for all species per plot per sampling period (Fig. S2). Within a radius of 300m of each plot, we quantified the local landscape composition (ArcGIS Pro 10.8) as: i) mass flowering crop species richness; and the proportional area of ii) mass flowering crops and iii) semi-natural habitats (woodland, hedges, grass and wildflower strips, vegetation along pathways/tracks) (Table S2-S3). The occurrence of tillage in the fields adjacent to the focal plant plots was pre-determined by the CA-SYS experimental design (Table S2, Fig. S2). Mean non-crop floral species richness and floral abundance, the proportional area and species richness of mass flowering crops were calculated separately for C. segetum and C. jacea to coincide with their species-specific flowering periods and represent their phenological overlap with crop and non-crop floral resources (Fig. 1). Focal plant biomass, flower head production and seed set After flowering (16/07/2019 for C. segetum and 09/09/2019 for C. jacea), the focal plant flower stalks were harvested and placed in muslin bags. After seed head insects emerged (below), we measured the dry weight of plant biomass (g), the number of flower heads (capitula), and the count (n) and mass (g) of seeds per replicate plant. A priori we expected these plant metrics to be highly correlated (Appendix 3 and Fig. S4, all P < 0.001). Consequently, we chose seed yield (count) as a direct measure of reproductive potential that also indicated other aspects of focal plant performance. Pollinator visitation
Both focal plants and transects were observed (09:30-17:30, dry weather, little wind, ≥14°C) for insect pollinators (mainly Hymenoptera and Diptera, with a single Lepidopteran) fortnightly (C. segetum: late May to mid-July; C. jacea: mid-July-September). Sampling effort was standardised by observing pollinator visitation for a fixed duration of 30 minutes (15 minutes each per focal plot and transect). The order of sampling (plot + transect) on each date was randomized to avoid introducing a systematic bias due to the time of day. Pollinator species observed legitimately visiting a flower (contact with stamen/carpel, nectar or pollen feeding) were captured, killed, and stored (70% ethanol) until identification (ZEISS Stemi 2000-C microscope, see Appendix 2 for standard keys, Table S4). Observations of focal plants provided the number of pollinator individuals and species per focal individual over the season. We supplemented this with transect data (10 surveys) giving pollinator abundance and species richness on non-focal C. segetum (and hybrids with horticultural varieties) or C. jacea during the season. This assumed that pollinators foraging on C. segetum/C. jacea in transects could have visited focal plants (c.f. directly observed interactions) and so comprised a potential pool of visitors active in the vicinity (100m) of our focal plants. Therefore, pollinator abundance and species richness were the sum of insect visits and cumulative count of different species recorded per focal plant individual and focal plant species per transect. Seed herbivores and parasitoids. After a minimum of 2 months storage (20 ± 3°C), seed herbivores (Tephritidae; Diptera) and their

The number and type of pollinators in winter-sown oilseed rape fields (Brassica napus L.) in relation to local plant diversity (in crop and field margin) and landscape characteristics. Pollinators were collected using two methods (pan traps and transects). Local plant diversity was assessed using quadrats in field margins and in cropped area. The presence of hedges was also recorded. Landscape characteristics included the presence of patches of grassland of different biodiversity levels and the amount of grasslands and other semi natural habitat within a 0.5 - 3km radius circular buffer of the collection points. Data were collected over two years (2014-2015). These data were collected as part of Wessex BESS project, funded by the NERC Biodiversity and Ecosystem Service Sustainability research program. This dataset can be used in conjunction with other Wessex BESS WP4 datasets.

Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service market size reached USD 1.23 billion in 2024, driven by increasing awareness of the critical role pollinators play in agricultural productivity and food security. The market is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 14.1% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated USD 3.85 billion by the end of the forecast period. This impressive growth trajectory is propelled by technological advancements in managed pollination, data analytics integration, and escalating demand for sustainable agricultural practices worldwide.

One of the primary growth factors for the Precision Bee Pollination-as-a-Service market is the rising global concern over declining natural pollinator populations, particularly honey bees. The increasing frequency of colony collapse disorder, habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and climate change have collectively led to a significant reduction in wild pollinator numbers. This has created an urgent need for managed pollination services that can ensure crop yields and food security are not compromised. In response, farmers and agribusinesses are increasingly turning to precision pollination solutions that leverage technology to optimize pollinator deployment, monitor pollination effectiveness, and minimize ecological disruptions. These services not only help offset pollinator shortages but also enhance crop quality and yield, further driving market adoption.

Another major driver fueling market expansion is the integration of advanced data analytics and IoT technologies into pollination services. The emergence of smart beehives, remote monitoring systems, and AI-powered data analytics has revolutionized the way pollination is managed and measured. Service providers can now offer real-time insights into bee activity, pollination rates, and environmental conditions, enabling data-driven decision-making for farmers and agribusinesses. This technological leap has significantly improved the efficiency and transparency of pollination services, making them more attractive to large-scale agricultural operations and research institutions. Furthermore, the availability of precision pollination-as-a-service models allows stakeholders to access these advanced capabilities without the need for significant capital investment in equipment or expertise, thereby broadening the market’s reach.

Additionally, the growing emphasis on sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices is contributing to the rapid adoption of precision bee pollination services. As regulatory pressures and consumer demand for sustainable food production intensify, stakeholders across the agricultural value chain are seeking solutions that reduce chemical inputs, enhance biodiversity, and minimize ecological impact. Precision bee pollination services align perfectly with these objectives by promoting natural pollination processes, reducing reliance on synthetic pollinators or manual pollination, and supporting ecosystem health. This alignment with sustainability goals is not only accelerating market growth but also positioning precision pollination as a vital component of future-ready agricultural systems.

Regionally, North America and Europe are leading the adoption of precision bee pollination-as-a-service, owing to their advanced agricultural sectors, high awareness of pollinator health issues, and supportive regulatory frameworks. However, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a significant growth engine, fueled by rapid agricultural modernization, expanding horticulture and greenhouse sectors, and increasing investments in agritech innovation. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa, while currently smaller markets, are expected to witness accelerated growth as awareness spreads and local agricultural sectors seek to enhance productivity and sustainability through precision pollination solutions.

Service Type Analysis

The Service Type segment of the Precis

The global pollination services market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality agricultural produce and the rising awareness of the crucial role pollinators play in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health. This market, estimated at $5 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated market value of approximately $9 billion by 2033. Key drivers include the escalating adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, the growing concerns regarding declining pollinator populations due to habitat loss and pesticide use, and the increasing demand for organic and sustainably produced food. The rising popularity of greenhouse cultivation and vertical farming further fuels this market expansion by creating controlled environments conducive to optimal pollination. Market segments include managed honeybee pollination, wild bee enhancement programs, and other innovative pollination technologies like hand pollination and bumble bee rentals, each catering to specific crop requirements and agricultural practices. Leading companies in this sector, such as Koppert, Biobest Group, and BioBee, are constantly innovating to develop more efficient and sustainable pollination solutions. The market’s growth trajectory is, however, subject to certain restraints. These include the high initial investment costs associated with establishing and maintaining pollination services, regional variations in bee populations and climate conditions affecting pollination success rates, and potential challenges in regulating and monitoring the quality of pollination services. Nevertheless, ongoing research and development efforts focused on improving bee health, developing advanced monitoring technologies, and educating stakeholders about the importance of pollination are expected to mitigate these challenges. Geographical segmentation reveals strong growth in regions with significant agricultural production, including North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, driven by increasing demand for high-yield crops and a greater awareness of biodiversity preservation. Strategic partnerships between agricultural producers, research institutions, and pollination service providers are anticipated to drive future market growth and sustainable development in this vital sector.

Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix market size was valued at USD 1.42 billion in 2024, and the sector is experiencing robust momentum with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2025 to 2033. By the end of 2033, the market is forecasted to reach USD 2.81 billion, driven by increasing recognition of pollinators’ critical role in ecosystem health and agricultural productivity. This growth is further bolstered by expanding governmental initiatives, heightened consumer awareness, and a rising trend in sustainable landscaping practices.

One of the primary growth drivers for the Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix market is the escalating global concern regarding pollinator population decline, particularly bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of a significant percentage of food crops. Governments and conservation organizations are launching targeted programs and incentives to restore pollinator habitats, stimulating demand for high-quality seed mixes tailored to native flora and fauna. The agricultural sector, in particular, is increasingly adopting pollinator-friendly practices, supported by research that underscores the direct correlation between pollinator activity and crop yields. This widespread adoption is creating considerable opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers of pollinator habitat seed mixes, especially as sustainable farming practices become mainstream.

Another crucial growth factor is the rising popularity of sustainable landscaping among residential and commercial property owners. As urbanization accelerates, there is a growing movement toward creating green spaces that support biodiversity and environmental resilience. Landscaping professionals and home gardeners are increasingly seeking pollinator habitat seed mixes that are easy to establish and maintain, contain native plant species, and contribute to local ecosystem health. The availability of custom blends tailored to specific regional climates and soil conditions is further expanding the market’s appeal, as consumers demand solutions that deliver both ecological and aesthetic benefits. This trend is reinforced by educational campaigns and collaborations between seed suppliers, environmental NGOs, and government agencies.

Technological advancements in seed formulation, packaging, and distribution channels are also significantly influencing market growth. Online retail platforms and specialty stores are making it easier for end-users to access a diverse range of pollinator habitat seed mixes, while direct sales channels are strengthening relationships with large-scale buyers such as farmers and conservation organizations. Innovations in seed coating and pre-mixed blends are improving germination rates and habitat establishment success, fostering repeat purchases and long-term market expansion. Moreover, data-driven approaches to habitat restoration, including GIS mapping and site-specific recommendations, are enhancing the effectiveness of pollinator habitat projects, further driving demand for specialized seed mixes.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to lead the Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed closely by Europe. Both regions benefit from strong regulatory frameworks, active conservation initiatives, and a high level of public engagement in biodiversity preservation. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market, propelled by rapid urbanization, increasing agricultural modernization, and rising awareness of ecosystem services. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing gradual market penetration, supported by international collaborations and pilot projects aimed at restoring degraded landscapes and supporting pollinator populations.

Product Type Analysis

The Product Type segment of the Pollinator Habitat Seed Mix market is highly diversified, encom

Swarm Pollination Drone Beacon Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global Swarm Pollination Drone Beacon market size in 2024 stands at USD 1.2 billion, reflecting the rapid integration of advanced pollination technologies in the agricultural sector. The market is poised for significant expansion, projected to reach USD 5.8 billion by 2033, growing at a robust CAGR of 19.2% during the forecast period. This impressive growth trajectory is primarily driven by the escalating demand for effective pollination solutions amid declining natural pollinator populations and the increasing adoption of automation in agriculture.

A key growth factor propelling the Swarm Pollination Drone Beacon market is the ongoing decline in global bee populations and other natural pollinators, which has placed immense pressure on agricultural productivity worldwide. Farmers and agribusinesses are increasingly turning to technological alternatives to maintain and enhance crop yields. Swarm pollination drone beacons, equipped with sophisticated navigation and communication systems, are emerging as a viable solution, enabling precise and efficient pollination even in challenging environments. This shift is further supported by growing awareness among stakeholders about the economic and environmental benefits of drone-assisted pollination, including reduced labor costs, minimized pesticide use, and improved crop quality. As regulatory frameworks evolve to accommodate these innovations, adoption rates are expected to accelerate further.

Another significant driver for market expansion is the rapid advancement in drone and beacon technologies. The integration of artificial intelligence, IoT connectivity, and real-time data analytics has revolutionized the way swarm pollination systems operate. Modern beacons are now capable of autonomous navigation, dynamic swarm coordination, and adaptive pollination strategies based on real-time environmental data. These technological enhancements not only improve the efficiency and reliability of pollination but also open up new possibilities for precision agriculture. The resulting increase in operational scalability and cost-effectiveness is attracting investments from both public and private sectors, fostering a competitive ecosystem that continually pushes the boundaries of innovation in the Swarm Pollination Drone Beacon market.

The market is also benefiting from supportive government initiatives and sustainability goals worldwide. As food security and sustainable agriculture become central to policy agendas, governments are incentivizing the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies, including swarm pollination drone beacons. Subsidies, research grants, and pilot programs are being rolled out to encourage farmers and agribusinesses to experiment with and implement these solutions. Moreover, the alignment of drone-based pollination with environmental sustainability objectives—such as reducing chemical inputs and supporting biodiversity—further strengthens its appeal. The interplay of these policy and market forces is expected to create a conducive environment for sustained growth in the coming years.

From a regional perspective, North America currently leads the Swarm Pollination Drone Beacon market, driven by high technology adoption rates, strong research infrastructure, and the presence of major industry players. Europe follows closely, benefiting from robust regulatory support and a strong focus on sustainable agriculture. The Asia Pacific region, however, is anticipated to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period, fueled by increasing investments in agri-tech, large-scale commercial farming operations, and rising awareness about pollinator decline. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also demonstrating growing interest, particularly in sectors such as horticulture and greenhouse farming, where precision pollination solutions can deliver significant productivity gains. This global diffusion of technology underscores the universal relevance of swarm pollination drone beacons in addressing agricultural challenges.