Bumble bees (Bombus) are vitally important pollinators of wild plants and agricultural crops worldwide. Fragmentary observations, however, have suggested population declines in several North American species. Despite rising concern over these observations in the United States, highlighted in a recent National Academy of Sciences report, a national assessment of the geographic scope and possible causal factors of bumble bee decline is lacking. Here, we report results of a 3-y interdisciplinary study of changing distributions, population genetic structure, and levels of pathogen infection in bumble bee populations across the United States. We compare current and historical distributions of eight species, compiling a database of >73,000 museum records for comparison with data from intensive nationwide surveys of >16,000 specimens. We show that the relative abundances of four species have declined by up to 96% and that their surveyed geographic ranges have contracted by 23–87%, some within the last 20 y. We also show that declining populations have significantly higher infection levels of the microsporidian pathogen Nosema bombi and lower genetic diversity compared with co-occurring populations of the stable (nondeclining) species. Higher pathogen prevalence and reduced genetic diversity are, thus, realistic predictors of these alarming patterns of decline in North America, although cause and effect remain uncertain. Bumble bees (Bombus) are integral wild pollinators within native plant communities throughout temperate ecosystems, and recent domestication has boosted their economic importance in crop pollination to a level surpassed only by the honey bee. Their robust size, long tongues, and buzz-pollination behavior (high-frequency buzzing to release pollen from flowers) significantly increase the efficiency of pollen transfer in multibillion dollar crops such as tomatoes and berries. Disturbing reports of bumble bee population declines in Europe have recently spilled over into North America, fueling environmental and economic concerns of global decline. However, the evidence for large-scale range reductions across North America is lacking. Many reports of decline are unpublished, and the few published studies are limited to independent local surveys in northern California/southern Oregon, Ontario, Canada, and Illinois. Furthermore, causal factors leading to the alleged decline of bumble bee populations in North America remain speculative. One compelling but untested hypothesis for the cause of decline in the United States entails the spread of a putatively introduced pathogen, Nosema bombi, which is an obligate intracellular microsporidian parasite found commonly in bumble bees throughout Europe but largely unstudied in North America. Pathogenic effects of N. bombi may vary depending on the host species and reproductive caste and include reductions in colony growth and individual life span and fitness. Population genetic factors could also play a role in Bombus population decline. For instance, small effective population sizes and reduced gene flow among fragmented habitats can result in losses of genetic diversity with negative consequences, and the detrimental impacts of these genetic factors can be especially intensified in bees. Population genetic studies of Bombus are rare worldwide. A single study in the United States identified lower genetic diversity and elevated genetic differentiation (FST) among Illinois populations of the putatively declining B. pensylvanicus relative to those of a codistributed stable species. Similar patterns have been observed in comparative studies of some European species, but most investigations have been geographically restricted and based on limited sampling within and among populations. Although the investigations to date have provided important information on the increasing rarity of some bumble bee species in local populations, the different survey protocols and limited geographic scope of these studies cannot fully capture the general patterns necessary to evaluate the underlying processes or overall gravity of declines. Furthermore, valid tests of the N. bombi hypothesis and its risk to populations across North America call for data on its geographic distribution and infection prevalence among species. Likewise, testing the general importance of population genetic factors in bumble bee decline requires genetic comparisons derived from sampling of multiple stable and declining populations on a large geographic scale. From such range-wide comparisons, we provide incontrovertible evidence that multiple Bombus species have experienced sharp population declines at the national level. We also show that declining populations are associated with both high N. bombi infection levels and low genetic diversity. This data was used in the paper "Patterns of widespread decline in North American bumble bees" published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of United States of America. For more information about this dataset contact: Sydney A. Cameron: scameron@life.illinois.edu James Strange: James.Strange@ars.usda.gov Resources in this dataset:Resource Title: Data from: Patterns of Widespread Decline in North American Bumble Bees (Data Dictionary). File Name: meta.xmlResource Description: This is an XML data dictionary for Data from: Patterns of Widespread Decline in North American Bumble Bees.Resource Title: Patterns of Widespread Decline in North American Bumble Bees (DWC Archive). File Name: occurrence.csvResource Description: File modified to remove fields with no recorded values.Resource Title: Patterns of Widespread Decline in North American Bumble Bees (DWC Archive). File Name: dwca-usda-ars-patternsofwidespreaddecline-bumblebees-v1.1.zipResource Description: Data from: Patterns of Widespread Decline in North American Bumble Bees -- this is a Darwin Core Archive file. The Darwin Core Archive is a zip file that contains three documents.

The occurrence data is stored in the occurrence.txt file. The metadata that describes the columns of this document is called meta.xml. This document is also the data dictionary for this dataset. The metadata that describes the dataset, including author and contact information for this dataset is called eml.xml.

Find the data files at https://bison.usgs.gov/ipt/resource?r=usda-ars-patternsofwidespreaddecline-bumblebees

This statistic shows the total number of beehives worldwide from 2010 to 2023. In 2023, there were about *** million beehives worldwide, increasing from around ***** million beehives in the previous year. Number of beehives worldwide has generally been increasing since 2010.

Additional file 2: Table S1. List of samples, with description, selection filters and SRA accessions. We identified 16 families of putative fullsibs: samples pertaining to these families are identified by the same family ID. Within each family, only the sample with the highest call rate was retained. In addition, one sample (shown in red) with a low call rate was not retained, leaving a final number of 102 retained samples. DNA sequences have been deposited in the Sequence Read Archive (SRA; at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sra ) under the BioProject accession PRJNA1044268 (individual and run accessions in dedicated columns of this table). Table S2. Importance rankings of the 96 SNPs selected by four random forest criteria. In total, 200 different SNPs were selected by at least one method; 20 of them appearing in all four lists. If a given SNP was not selected by a given method, it was set to rank 97. Cells are coloured conditioning on rank (top ranks in red; bottom ranks in blue) and rows are ordered on total rank.

The Africanized honey bee (AHB) is a New World amalgamation of several subspecies of the western honey bee (Apis mellifera), a diverse taxon historically grouped into four major biogeographic lineages: A (African), M (Western European), C (Eastern European), and O (Middle Eastern). In 1956, accidental release of experimentally bred “Africanized” hybrids from a research apiary in Sao Paulo, Brazil, initiated a hybrid species expansion that now extends from northern Argentina to northern California (U.S.A.). Here, we assess nuclear admixture and mitochondrial ancestry in 60 bees from four countries (Panamá; Costa Rica, Mexico; U.S.A) across this expansive range to assess ancestry of AHB several decades following initial introduction and test the prediction that African ancestry decreases with increasing latitude. We find that AHB nuclear genomes from Central America and Mexico have predominately African genomes (76–89%) with smaller contributions from Western and Eastern European lineages. Similarly, nearly all honey bees from Central America and Mexico possess mitochondrial ancestry from the African lineage with few individuals having European mitochondria. In contrast, AHB from San Diego (CA) show markedly lower African ancestry (38%) with substantial genomic contributions from all four major honey bee lineages and mitochondrial ancestry from all four clades as well. Genetic diversity measures from all New World populations equal or exceed those of ancestral populations. Interestingly, the feral honey bee population of San Diego emerges as a reservoir of diverse admixture and high genetic diversity, making it a potentially rich source of genetic material for honey bee breeding. Methods We collected 60 Western honey bees (n = 15/country) from sites in each of four countries: the isthmus of Panamá; Guanacaste National Park, Costa Rica; Chiapas, Mexico; San Diego County, California, U.S.A. (Table 1). All samples were collected in June 2015 – August 2016 by hand-netting. Honey bees in Panamá were collected with an insect net while they foraged either on natural vegetation in rural areas, or on street vendor syrup dispensers in urban areas. Honey bees were collected across the isthmus of Panamá from five sites, each separated by > 5 km: Panamá City, Gamboa, Barro Colorado Island (BCI), Santa Rita Arriba, and Cólon. Individuals from Costa Rica were collected from the Santa Rosa sector of Guanacaste National Park in northwestern Costa Rica. These bees were collected from a localized region and likely originate from a small number of feral colonies. Honey bees from Mexico were collected from an apiary in the southern state of Chiapas, with each bee collected from a different hive. Honey bees from San Diego County, California, U.S.A. were workers collected while foraging on flowers. San Diego bees were collected across 15 sites each separated by > 5 km so that each likely represents a worker from a different colony. The furthest collection sites were separated by 65 km. Collection sites ranged from urban to rural settings. Due to the presence of hobbyist and agricultural beekeeping we do not rule out the possibility that the captured honey bees were from managed rather than feral hives. However, most honey bee foragers in San Diego are from feral hives. We extracted DNA from crushed heads of the 60 sampled honey bees using the standard protocol of the Qiagen DNAeasy Blood & Tissue extraction kit. DNA purity and appropriate concentration for sequencing were validated with a Qubit fluorometer prior to submission for library preparation. The DNA was submitted for DNA KAPA library construction and whole-genome sequencing at the Institute for Genomic Medicine (IGM), UC San Diego. All 60 individuals were multiplexed and sequenced across three lanes of an Illumina HiSeq4000 platform to produce 100-bp paired end reads. Average genomic coverage per individual was 29±1.2X.

Honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) are the primary commercial pollinators across the world. The subspecies A. m. scutellata originated in Africa and was introduced to the Americas in 1956. For the last 60 years it hybridized successfully with European subspecies, previous residents in the area. The result of this hybridization was called Africanized Honey Bee (AHB). AHB has spread since then, arriving to Puerto Rico (PR) in 1994. The honey bee population on the island acquired a mosaic of features from AHB or the European Honey Bee (EHB). AHB in Puerto Rico shows a major distinctive characteristic, docile behavior, and are called gentle Africanized Honey Bees (gAHB). We used 917 SNPs to examine the population structure, genetic differentiation, origin and history of range expansion and colonization of gAHB in PR. We compared gAHB to populations that span the current distribution of A. mellifera worldwide. The gAHB population is shown to be a single population that differs genetically from the examined populations of AHB. Texas and PR groups are the closest genetically. Our results support the hypothesis that the Texas AHB population is the source of gAHB in Puerto Rico.

AbstractThe pollination services provided by bees are essential for supporting natural and agricultural ecosystems. However, bee population declines have been documented across the world. Many of the factors known to undermine bee health (e.g., poor nutrition) can decrease immunocompetence and, thereby, increase bees’ susceptibility to diseases. Given the myriad of stressors that can exacerbate disease in wild bee populations, assessments of the relative impact of landscape habitat conditions on bee pathogen prevalence are needed to effectively conserve pollinator populations. Herein, we assess how landscape-level conditions, including various metrics of floral/nesting resources, insecticides, weather, and honey bee (Apis mellifera) abundance, drive variation in wild bumble bee (Bombus impatiens) pathogen loads. Specifically, we screened 890 bumble bee workers from varied habitats in Pennsylvania, USA for three pathogens (deformed wing virus, black queen cell virus, and Vairimorpha (= N...

Honey bees are currently facing mounting pressures that have resulted in population declines in many parts of the world. In northern climates winter is a bottleneck for honey bees and a thorough understanding of the colonies’ ability to withstand the winter is needed in order to protect the bees from further decline. In this study the influence of weather variables on colony weight loss was studied over one winter (2019-2020) in two apiaries (32 colonies in total) in southwestern Sweden with weather stations recording wind, temperature, humidity and precipitation at 5-min intervals. Three subspecies of honey bees and one hybrid were studied: the native Apis mellifera mellifera, the Italian A. m. ligustica, the Carniolan A. m. carnica and the hybrid Buckfast. Additionally, we recorded Varroa mite infestation. To analyze factors involved in resource consumption, three modelling approaches using weather and weight data were developed: the first links daily consumption rates with environmental variables, the second modelled the cumulative weight change over time, and the third estimated weight change over time taking light intensity and temperature into account. Weight losses were in general low (0.039 ± 0.013kg/day and colony) and comparable to southern locations, likely due to an exceptionally warm winter (average temperature 3.5°C). Weight losses differed only marginally between subspecies with indications that A. m. mellifera was having a more conservative resource consumption, but more studies are needed to confirm this. We did not find any effect of Varroa mite numbers on weight loss. In general, increasing light and temperature increase resource consumption in honey bees and within the temperature ranges of the experiment resource consumption was found to be in accordance with the master equation of metabolic theory of ecology (MTE). The effects of climate change could potentially affect the honey bees’ overwintering strategies and successes since temperature is expected to change but light intensity is expected to remain the same. A dependence on both light and temperature to guide resource consumption could thus potentially limit the honey bees’ ability to adapt to a changing climate.

Taxonomic assignments for cytochrome c oxidase I (CO1) barcode sequences obtained from single specimens compared to their image-based morphological identifications.

Bees are the primary pollinators of flowering plants in almost all ecosystems. Worldwide declines in bee populations have raised awareness about the importance of their ecological role in maintaining ecosystem functioning. The naturally strong philopatric behavior that some bee species show can be detrimental to population viability through increased probability of inbreeding. Furthermore, bee populations found in human-altered landscapes, such as urban areas, can experience lower levels of gene flow and effective population sizes, increasing potential for inbreeding depression in wild bee populations. In this study, we investigated the fine-scale population structure of the solitary bee Colletes inaequalis in an urbanized landscape. First, we developed a predictive spatial model to detect suitable nesting habitat for this ground nesting bee and to inform our field search for nests. We genotyped 18 microsatellites in 548 female individuals collected from nest aggregations throughout the study area. Genetic relatedness estimates revealed that genetic similarity among individuals was slightly greater within nest aggregations than among randomly chosen individuals. However, genetic structure among nest aggregations was low (Nei’s GST = 0.011). Reconstruction of parental genotypes revealed greater genetic relatedness among females than among males within nest aggregations, suggesting male-mediated dispersal as a potentially important mechanism of population connectivity and inbreeding avoidance. Size of nesting patch was positively correlated with effective population size, but not with other estimators of genetic diversity. We detected a positive trend between geographic distance and genetic differentiation between nest aggregations. Our landscape genetic models suggest that increased urbanization is likely associated with higher levels of inbreeding. Overall, these findings emphasize the importance of density and distribution of suitable nesting patches for enhancing bee population abundance and connectivity in human dominated habitats and highlights the critical contribution of landscape genetic studies for enhanced conservation and management of native pollinators.

Bee-Counting Entrance Sensor Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global bee-counting entrance sensor market size reached USD 142.5 million in 2024, reflecting the growing adoption of smart monitoring technologies in apiculture and agricultural sectors worldwide. The market is set to expand at a robust CAGR of 13.7% from 2025 to 2033, driven by technological advancements and the rising importance of pollinator health management. By 2033, the bee-counting entrance sensor market is forecasted to attain a value of USD 410.6 million. Key growth factors include the integration of IoT, increasing demand for precision agriculture, and the critical role of bees in global food security.

One of the primary drivers fueling the growth of the bee-counting entrance sensor market is the escalating global awareness regarding the declining bee populations and their impact on pollination and food production. Bees play a pivotal role in pollinating a vast array of crops, making them indispensable to the agricultural industry. The deployment of advanced bee-counting entrance sensors enables beekeepers, researchers, and agricultural enterprises to monitor hive activity, assess colony health, and optimize pollination strategies. This real-time data collection not only facilitates early detection of anomalies such as disease outbreaks or pesticide exposure but also empowers stakeholders to implement timely interventions. As governments and international organizations roll out initiatives to protect pollinators, the adoption of bee-counting entrance sensors is expected to surge, further propelling market growth.

Technological advancements have significantly enhanced the capabilities and accuracy of bee-counting entrance sensors, contributing to their widespread adoption. The integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced imaging technologies has enabled the development of highly sensitive and reliable sensors capable of distinguishing between different bee species and even detecting subtle behavioral changes. These innovations have expanded the scope of applications beyond commercial beekeeping to include research and environmental monitoring. Additionally, the proliferation of wireless connectivity and IoT platforms has facilitated remote monitoring and data analysis, allowing users to access real-time insights from anywhere. This technological evolution not only improves operational efficiency but also reduces labor costs and minimizes human error, making bee-counting entrance sensors an attractive investment for various end-users.

Another significant growth factor for the bee-counting entrance sensor market is the increasing emphasis on sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. As the global population rises and demand for food increases, there is mounting pressure on agricultural enterprises to enhance crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. Bee-counting entrance sensors provide critical data that supports precision pollination services, enabling farmers to optimize hive placement and maximize pollination efficiency. This data-driven approach not only boosts crop productivity but also promotes sustainable farming practices by reducing the need for chemical inputs. Moreover, research institutes and conservation organizations are leveraging these sensors to monitor wild bee populations and assess the effectiveness of habitat restoration efforts. The convergence of environmental sustainability and technological innovation is expected to drive sustained demand for bee-counting entrance sensors in the coming years.

From a regional perspective, North America and Europe currently dominate the bee-counting entrance sensor market, accounting for a substantial share of global revenues in 2024. This dominance can be attributed to the presence of well-established beekeeping industries, robust research infrastructure, and proactive government policies supporting pollinator health. However, the Asia Pacific region is poised for the fastest growth during the forecast period, driven by expanding agricultural activities, increasing adoption of smart farming technologies, and rising awareness about the importance of pollinators. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing gradual adoption, supported by growing interest in sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation. As regional markets mature and technology becomes more accessible, the global bee-counting entrance sensor market is expected to witness widespread adoption across diverse geographies.

Bee Feed Market Outlook

The global bee feed market size was valued at approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 2.3 billion by 2032, growing at a robust CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period. This impressive growth can be attributed to several key factors, including the increasing awareness of the importance of bees in global agriculture, the rising demand for honey and other bee-related products, and the growing interest in sustainable agricultural practices.

The primary growth factor driving the bee feed market is the pivotal role bees play in pollinating crops, which is crucial for global food production. With nearly 35% of the worldÂ’s crop production relying on bee pollination, the health and sustainability of bee populations are paramount. Consequently, there is an escalating demand for high-quality bee feed to ensure the vitality and productivity of bee colonies. As agricultural industries recognize the indispensable role of bees, investments in bee health through improved feed and nutrition are becoming a priority.

Another significant driver of market growth is the burgeoning demand for honey and other bee-derived products. Honey consumption has been steadily rising due to its perceived health benefits and its use as a natural sweetener. Additionally, products such as beeswax, royal jelly, and propolis are gaining popularity in various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverages. This growing demand translates directly to an increased need for robust and healthy bee colonies, further fueling the market for bee feed.

Furthermore, the increasing awareness of environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation is propelling the bee feed market forward. Governments and non-governmental organizations worldwide are launching initiatives to protect and preserve bee populations. These initiatives often include funding for research on bee nutrition and the development of high-quality, sustainable bee feed products. Such efforts are crucial in ensuring the long-term survival of bees, which in turn supports the growth of the bee feed market.

In the context of sustainable beekeeping practices, the Bee Smoker emerges as an essential tool for beekeepers. This device is used to calm bees during hive inspections, allowing beekeepers to manage their colonies with minimal stress to the bees. By emitting smoke, the Bee Smoker masks alarm pheromones released by guard bees, thereby reducing the likelihood of aggressive behavior. This not only ensures the safety of the beekeeper but also helps maintain the tranquility of the hive, promoting a healthier environment for the bees. The use of a Bee Smoker is particularly important in commercial beekeeping, where large-scale operations require efficient and safe hive management techniques.

Regionally, North America and Europe are currently the largest markets for bee feed, primarily due to their advanced agricultural practices and high awareness of bee conservation issues. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of commercial beekeeping practices in countries such as China and India, coupled with rising government support for apiculture. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa also present significant growth opportunities, albeit at a slower pace, as awareness and infrastructural development in these regions continue to improve.

Product Type Analysis

The bee feed market is segmented into two primary product types: liquid bee feed and solid bee feed. Liquid bee feeds, which include sugar syrups and other liquid nutrients, are particularly favored during periods when natural nectar sources are scarce or during transportation. The ease of consumption and immediate energy boost provided by liquid feeds make them an essential component in commercial beekeeping operations. The production and distribution of liquid bee feed are supported by advancements in formulation technologies, ensuring the nutritional adequacy of these feeds to sustain bee health.

Solid bee feeds, on the other hand, encompass products such as pollen patties, fondant, and protein supplements. These feeds are typically used to provide bees with essential proteins and other nutrients that might be deficient in their natural diet. Solid bee feeds play a critical role during off-seasons when pollen availability is low, ens

Smart Beehive Scale Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global smart beehive scale market size reached USD 68.1 million in 2024, reflecting a robust demand for advanced beekeeping technologies. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.7% during the forecast period, leading to a projected market value of USD 202.6 million by 2033. This impressive growth trajectory is primarily driven by the increasing need for precision beekeeping, the integration of IoT and smart technologies in agriculture, and the rising awareness about bee health and colony management. As per our comprehensive analysis, the smart beehive scale market is witnessing accelerated adoption due to its ability to provide real-time data, optimize honey production, and ensure the sustainability of bee populations globally.

One of the primary growth drivers for the smart beehive scale market is the expanding commercial beekeeping industry, which increasingly relies on data-driven insights to maximize productivity and ensure colony health. Commercial beekeepers are adopting smart beehive scales to monitor hive weight, track nectar flow, and detect anomalies such as swarming or hive theft. These digital scales, often equipped with cloud connectivity and advanced analytics, enable users to make informed decisions based on real-time data. The integration of smart beehive scales with other monitoring systems, such as temperature and humidity sensors, further enhances their utility, allowing comprehensive hive management. The global focus on sustainable agriculture and the critical role of bees in pollination have also incentivized commercial enterprises to invest in smart technologies, driving market growth.

Technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in shaping the smart beehive scale market. The proliferation of IoT devices, artificial intelligence, and wireless connectivity has transformed traditional beekeeping practices, making them more efficient and less labor-intensive. Smart beehive scales now offer features such as remote monitoring, automated alerts, and integration with mobile applications, which appeal to both commercial operators and hobbyist beekeepers. Research and development activities are also fostering innovation in product design, with manufacturers focusing on enhancing accuracy, durability, and ease of use. The growing trend of precision agriculture, coupled with government initiatives supporting digital farming, is expected to further propel the adoption of smart beehive scales across various regions.

The increasing awareness about bee health and the declining bee population worldwide have underscored the importance of monitoring and managing hives effectively. Smart beehive scales provide valuable insights into colony behavior, food availability, and environmental stressors, enabling beekeepers to take timely action to prevent losses. Educational institutions and research organizations are leveraging these devices to conduct studies on bee behavior and ecosystem dynamics, further expanding the market’s application scope. Additionally, the rise of hobbyist beekeeping, fueled by urban agriculture movements and interest in sustainability, is contributing to market growth as individuals seek user-friendly solutions for hive management. The convergence of these factors is expected to sustain the upward trajectory of the smart beehive scale market in the coming years.

Regionally, North America holds a dominant share of the smart beehive scale market, driven by advanced agricultural practices, high awareness about pollinator health, and significant investments in agri-tech solutions. Europe follows closely, with strong support from regulatory bodies and a vibrant community of commercial and hobbyist beekeepers. The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market, fueled by the expansion of commercial agriculture and government initiatives promoting smart farming. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually adopting smart beehive technologies, supported by rising investments in agricultural modernization and increasing awareness about the ecological importance of bees. These regional trends are expected to shape the competitive landscape and growth opportunities in the global smart beehive scale market.

description: This national protocol framework is a standardized tool for the inventory and monitoring of the approximately 4,200 species of native and non-native bee species that may be found within the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). However, this protocol framework may also be used by other organizations and individuals to monitor bees in any given habitat or location. Our goal is to provide USFWS stations within the NWRS (NWRS stations are land units managed by the USFWS such as national wildlife refuges, national fish hatcheries, wetland management districts, conservation areas, leased lands, etc.) with techniques for developing an initial baseline inventory of what bee species are present on their lands and to provide an inexpensive, simple technique for monitoring bees continuously and for monitoring and evaluating long-term population trends and management impacts. The latter long-term monitoring technique requires a minimal time burden for the individual station, yet can provide a good statistical sample of changing populations that can be investigated at the station, regional, and national levels within the USFWS jurisdiction, and compared to other sites within the United States and Canada. This protocol framework was developed in cooperation with the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the USFWS, and a worldwide network of bee researchers who have investigated the techniques and methods for capturing bees and tracking population changes. The protocol framework evolved from field and lab-based investigations at the USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory at the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Beltsville, Maryland starting in 2002 and was refined by a large number of USFWS, academic, and state groups. It includes a Protocol Introduction and a set of 8 Standard Operating Procedures or SOPs and adheres to national standards of protocol content and organization. The Protocol Narrative describes the history and need for the protocol framework and summarizes the basic elements of objectives, sampling design, field methods, training, data management, analysis, and reporting. The SOPs provide more detail and specific instructions for implementing the protocol framework. A central database, for managing all the resulting data is under development. We welcome use of this protocol framework by our partners, as appropriate for their bee inventory and monitoring objectives.; abstract: This national protocol framework is a standardized tool for the inventory and monitoring of the approximately 4,200 species of native and non-native bee species that may be found within the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS) administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). However, this protocol framework may also be used by other organizations and individuals to monitor bees in any given habitat or location. Our goal is to provide USFWS stations within the NWRS (NWRS stations are land units managed by the USFWS such as national wildlife refuges, national fish hatcheries, wetland management districts, conservation areas, leased lands, etc.) with techniques for developing an initial baseline inventory of what bee species are present on their lands and to provide an inexpensive, simple technique for monitoring bees continuously and for monitoring and evaluating long-term population trends and management impacts. The latter long-term monitoring technique requires a minimal time burden for the individual station, yet can provide a good statistical sample of changing populations that can be investigated at the station, regional, and national levels within the USFWS jurisdiction, and compared to other sites within the United States and Canada. This protocol framework was developed in cooperation with the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the USFWS, and a worldwide network of bee researchers who have investigated the techniques and methods for capturing bees and tracking population changes. The protocol framework evolved from field and lab-based investigations at the USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Laboratory at the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center in Beltsville, Maryland starting in 2002 and was refined by a large number of USFWS, academic, and state groups. It includes a Protocol Introduction and a set of 8 Standard Operating Procedures or SOPs and adheres to national standards of protocol content and organization. The Protocol Narrative describes the history and need for the protocol framework and summarizes the basic elements of objectives, sampling design, field methods, training, data management, analysis, and reporting. The SOPs provide more detail and specific instructions for implementing the protocol framework. A central database, for managing all the resulting data is under development. We welcome use of this protocol framework by our partners, as appropriate for their bee inventory and monitoring objectives.

Advantages and disadvantages of image-based morphological identification and DNA metabarcoding for wild bee identification.

The global apiculture equipment market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for honey and other bee products, coupled with a rising awareness of the crucial role of bees in pollination and environmental sustainability. The market, estimated at $1.5 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of approximately $2.5 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the growing global population and increasing disposable incomes are driving up the consumption of honey and related bee products, boosting the demand for efficient and technologically advanced apiculture equipment. Secondly, the rising awareness of the importance of bee conservation and the declining bee populations worldwide are encouraging beekeepers to adopt modern equipment and techniques for improved bee health and honey production. Furthermore, technological advancements in hive management tools, protective clothing, and honey extractors are improving efficiency and yield, stimulating market growth. The market is segmented by product type (hive tools, protective clothing, smokers, honey extractors, and others) and sales channel (online and offline). While online sales are experiencing rapid growth, offline channels remain dominant, reflecting the strong preference for direct interaction and product assessment among beekeepers. Geographical distribution shows significant regional variations, with North America and Europe holding the largest market share, driven by established beekeeping practices and a high level of consumer awareness. However, emerging economies in Asia-Pacific are presenting lucrative growth opportunities, fueled by increasing beekeeping adoption and government initiatives supporting the sector. The major restraints to market growth include the high initial investment costs associated with purchasing modern apiculture equipment, which can pose a barrier for smaller-scale beekeepers. Fluctuations in honey prices and seasonal variations in honey production also impact the market dynamics. However, government support programs aimed at promoting sustainable beekeeping practices and technological advancements in cost-effective equipment are likely to mitigate these challenges in the long term. Leading players in the market are constantly innovating to enhance product efficiency, durability, and user-friendliness, thereby driving the market’s growth. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of large multinational companies and smaller regional players, leading to a dynamic and innovative market environment. This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global apiculture equipment market, valued at approximately $2 billion in 2023. It delves into market segmentation, key trends, competitive landscape, and future growth projections, utilizing data from reputable sources and industry expertise. This report is crucial for businesses involved in beekeeping, agricultural technology, and related sectors. High-search-volume keywords like "beekeeping equipment market size," "honey extractor sales," "beehive tools wholesale," and "protective beekeeping suits" are incorporated throughout to optimize online visibility.

Precision Bee Colony Robot Hive Market Outlook

The global Precision Bee Colony Robot Hive market size reached USD 1.04 billion in 2024 and, as per our latest research, is expected to grow at a robust CAGR of 17.8% from 2025 to 2033, reaching a forecasted value of USD 5.44 billion by 2033. This strong growth trajectory is primarily driven by the increasing need for advanced beekeeping solutions to combat declining bee populations, enhance pollination efficiency, and support sustainable agriculture. The adoption of AI and IoT technologies in apiculture is revolutionizing hive management, contributing significantly to the market’s rapid expansion.

One of the most significant growth factors for the Precision Bee Colony Robot Hive market is the global concern over declining bee populations, which play a crucial role in pollination and food security. Traditional beekeeping faces challenges such as disease outbreaks, pesticide exposure, and environmental stressors, leading to substantial colony losses. The integration of robotics and smart sensors into beehive management allows for real-time monitoring, early detection of anomalies, and automated maintenance, thereby helping beekeepers prevent colony collapse and improve hive productivity. This technological advancement is especially vital for commercial beekeepers who manage large-scale operations and require scalable, efficient solutions to ensure the sustainability of their businesses.

Another key driver is the rising demand for precision agriculture and sustainable farming practices. As the global population grows and the need for food production intensifies, efficient pollination becomes imperative for crop yield optimization. Precision Bee Colony Robot Hives equipped with AI-based systems and IoT-enabled devices provide actionable insights into hive health, bee activity, and environmental conditions. These data-driven approaches empower farmers and agricultural enterprises to synchronize pollination services with crop cycles, reduce manual labor, and minimize hive disturbances. The result is higher pollination efficiency, increased crop yields, and a more resilient agricultural ecosystem, all of which contribute to the market’s upward momentum.

Furthermore, supportive government initiatives and funding for research in apiculture technology are accelerating the adoption of robotic hive solutions. Governments and environmental organizations worldwide are investing in innovative projects aimed at preserving pollinator populations and promoting biodiversity. The availability of grants and subsidies for deploying smart beehive systems encourages both commercial and small-scale beekeepers to embrace advanced technologies. Additionally, collaborations between technology firms, research institutes, and agricultural cooperatives are fostering the development of scalable, cost-effective solutions that cater to diverse end-user needs, further stimulating market growth.

Regionally, North America leads the Precision Bee Colony Robot Hive market, driven by high awareness of pollinator health, strong technological infrastructure, and significant investments in agricultural innovation. Europe closely follows, with stringent regulatory frameworks supporting sustainable farming and environmental monitoring. The Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market due to expanding agricultural activities, rising food demand, and increasing government support for precision farming initiatives. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually adopting these technologies, primarily in commercial agriculture and research applications, contributing to the market’s global expansion.

Product Type Analysis

The Product Type segment in the Precision Bee Colony Robot Hive market is characterized by rapid innovation and a diverse range of offerings tailored to different beekeeping needs. Automated Hive Monitoring Systems are at the forefront, providing continuous tracking of hive temperature, humidity, bee activity, and

The global bee feed market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing concerns about bee colony health and declining bee populations worldwide. The market, valued at approximately $500 million in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the rising demand for honey and pollination services in agriculture is creating a greater need for supplemental bee feed to ensure healthy and productive hives. Secondly, the increasing awareness of the vital role bees play in maintaining biodiversity and global food security is leading to greater investments in beekeeping and bee health initiatives. Furthermore, advancements in bee feed formulations, focusing on nutritional content and disease resistance, are contributing to market expansion. Several market segments exist within this area, including protein supplements, carbohydrate sources, and pollen substitutes, catering to the diverse needs of beekeepers across the globe. However, the market also faces certain challenges. The fluctuating prices of raw materials used in bee feed production, along with potential supply chain disruptions, can impact profitability. Furthermore, regulatory hurdles and varying standards for bee feed quality across different regions can pose obstacles to market expansion. Despite these restraints, the long-term outlook for the bee feed market remains positive, with ongoing research and development efforts focused on enhancing bee health and productivity. The presence of a diverse range of companies, from large multinational corporations like Südzucker AG and Nordzucker to smaller, specialized beekeeping suppliers, reflects the market's dynamic nature and its capacity for continued growth. The regional distribution of the market is likely to vary, with regions heavily involved in agriculture and beekeeping exhibiting higher demand.

Pollinators are important both ecologically and economically. Nonetheless, documented pollinator population decline threatens ecosystem functioning and human well-being. In response, conservation methods such as augmented pollinator habitat are becoming popular tools to combat pollinator losses. While previous research has shown added habitat can benefit bee communities, there are still aspects of the habitat implementation that require further research, particularly how this will impact bee communities in real-world settings beyond researcher-led efforts. In our study, we use a 2016 initiative mandating the planting of pollinator habitat on research stations across North Carolina, United States to act as an outdoor laboratory to investigate this exact question. From 2016 to 2018, we found significant increases in bee abundance and diversity. However, these increases depended on the quality of habitat, with areas of higher flower cover and diversity supporting larger, more diverse bee communities. Although the habitats positively supported bee communities, we found that resources within the habitats were lower later in the sampling season, highlighting the need of developing seed mixes that include late season resources. Weedy plants were documented to establish within the habitats, demonstrating the need for regular upkeep and maintenance of pollinator habitat in order to appropriately support bee communities. It is likely that planting pollinator habitat will not be a one-size-fits-all conservation solution, as bee species can respond differently to some habitat characteristics. Future long-term studies on pollinators will be important as natural fluctuations in bee populations may limit findings and many knowledge gaps on native bees still persist.

The honey bee, Apis mellifera L., is one of the main pollinators worldwide. In a temperate climate, seasonality affects the life span, behavior, physiology, and immunity of honey bees. In consequence, it impacts their interaction with pathogens and parasites. In this study, we used Bayesian statistics and modeling to examine the immune response dynamics of summer and winter honey bee workers after injection with the heat-killed bacteria Serratia marcescens, an opportunistic honey bee pathogen. We investigated the humoral and cellular immune response at the transcriptional and functional levels using qPCR of selected immune genes, antimicrobial activity assay, and flow cytometric analysis of hemocyte concentration. Our data demonstrate increased antimicrobial activity at transcriptional and functional levels in summer and winter workers after injection, with a stronger immune response in winter bees. On the other hand, an increase in hemocyte concentration was observed only in the summer bee population. Our results indicate that the summer population mounts a cellular response when challenged with heat-killed S. marcescens, while winter honey bees predominantly rely on humoral immune reactions. We created a model describing the honey bee immune response dynamics to bacteria-derived components by applying Bayesian statistics to our data. This model can be employed in further research and facilitate the investigating of the honey bee immune system and its response to pathogens.

Bee Hive Monitoring Sensor Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global bee hive monitoring sensor market size reached USD 98.4 million in 2024, with a robust year-over-year growth rate driven by the increasing adoption of precision beekeeping practices. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 12.5% from 2025 to 2033, culminating in a projected market value of USD 287.1 million by 2033. This impressive growth is fueled by rising concerns over bee population health, technological advancements in sensor solutions, and the growing need for data-driven hive management among commercial beekeepers and research institutions worldwide.

The primary growth factor for the bee hive monitoring sensor market is the escalating awareness regarding the crucial role of bees in global food security and biodiversity. As pollinators, bees are integral to the agricultural ecosystem, and their declining populations have raised alarms among governments, environmentalists, and the agricultural sector. This has led to increased investment in monitoring technologies that provide real-time data on hive conditions, enabling early detection of stressors such as disease, pests, and environmental changes. The integration of IoT and smart sensors has revolutionized hive management, making it possible to remotely monitor temperature, humidity, weight, and even bee activity, thus reducing manual inspections and improving hive health outcomes. These technological advancements are not only enhancing operational efficiencies for commercial beekeepers but are also supporting research initiatives aimed at understanding and mitigating the causes of colony collapse disorder.

Another significant driver is the growing adoption of data analytics and cloud-based platforms in precision apiculture. Modern bee hive monitoring sensors are increasingly being integrated with advanced analytics tools and cloud connectivity, allowing beekeepers to access and analyze hive data from anywhere in real-time. This connectivity facilitates predictive maintenance, trend analysis, and timely interventions, thereby reducing hive losses and maximizing honey yields. The proliferation of user-friendly mobile applications and dashboards has further democratized access to sophisticated hive monitoring, attracting small and medium-scale beekeepers to invest in these solutions. Moreover, government initiatives and funding for pollinator protection, along with collaborations between technology providers and agricultural research institutes, are accelerating the deployment of bee hive monitoring sensors across both developed and developing regions.

Environmental sustainability and the shift towards organic and sustainable farming practices are also contributing to the market’s expansion. Consumers are increasingly demanding transparency and traceability in honey production, prompting beekeepers to adopt monitoring technologies that ensure hive health and product quality. The deployment of solar-powered and energy-efficient sensors aligns with the sustainability goals of the apiculture industry, reducing the carbon footprint associated with hive management. Additionally, the rise in educational campaigns and training programs on digital beekeeping is fostering greater acceptance and utilization of hive monitoring sensors among traditional beekeepers, further fueling market growth.

Regionally, North America and Europe continue to dominate the bee hive monitoring sensor market due to their established commercial beekeeping industries, advanced technological infrastructure, and supportive regulatory frameworks. However, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a high-growth market, driven by increasing awareness of bee conservation, expanding commercial beekeeping activities, and rising investments in agricultural technology. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing steady adoption, supported by government-led initiatives and international collaborations aimed at enhancing pollinator health and agricultural productivity. These regional trends underscore the global importance of bee hive monitoring sensors in safeguarding pollinator populations and ensuring food security.