Pollinating Insects Research Unit

The mission of the Pollinating Insect - Biology, Management and Systematics Research Unit is the development of non-Apis bees (bee species other than honey bees, such as the alfalfa leafcutting bee and blue orchard bee) as crop pollinators. Research emphasis areas include the development and improvement of management systems for bee populations, biological studies of bees, plant-pollination systems, and bee biosystematics. Cross-pollinated crops not effectively pollinated by honey bees have been targeted for improved pollination management, and the candidacy of selected pollinator species continues to be evaluated. Current research on established species, like the alfalfa leafcutting bee and blue orchard bee, is directed toward developing control programs for pests and diseases, improving management that will result in better bee health, and demonstrating pollination efficacy and increased producer profitability on "new" crops.