The influence of acetamiprid and deltamethrin on the mortality and behaviour of honeybees (Apis mellifera carnica Pollman) in oilseed rape cultivations
D. Dworzańska, G. D. Moores, J. Zamojska, Przemysław Strażyński, P. Węgorek
Abstract
Abstract The aim of the research was to determine the influence of acetamiprid and deltamethrin on the mortality and behaviour of honeybees of the same variety, coming from the same source and estimated to be in good condition by a professional beekeeper, but in different years and under different weather conditions. Results of research conducted in field isolators in oilseed rape fields in the years 2012–2018 showed no acetamiprid influence either on the mortality or on the behaviour of honeybees. Deltamethrin activity differed from a lack of influence through causing mortality and a weaker condition of honeybee colonies to the destruction of the colony. This demonstrates the relative safety of acetamiprid to honeybees and the high risk of deltamethrin use. The differences in the bee colonies’ reaction to deltamethrin are probably caused by the high acute toxicity of this active ingredient, genetically dependent, variable metabolic capabilities of particular bee colonies, or coexistence of a variety of different stressors—mainly pathogens.