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A new BC3 study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution reveals how the loss of pollinator diversity negatively affects plant reproduction and ecosystem stability. Led by Maddi Artamendi (UPV/EHU) and Ainhoa Magrach (Ikerbasque Research Professor at BC3), the research underscores the urgent need to protect these species’ biodiversity in order to ensure the proper functioning of ecosystems.
During the analysis, indicators like seed production, fruit production, and fruit weight have been essential to measure the impact of pollinator diversity reduction
“Instead of focusing on extreme scenarios, such as the complete disappearance of pollinators, we analyzed the realistic impact of declining diversity among these essential species,” explains Maddi Artamendi.
The study also highlights key differences in vulnerability, noting that wild plants and pollinators are more affected by biodiversity loss than crops. Furthermore, the disappearance of invertebrate, nocturnal, and wild pollinators has a greater impact than the loss of vertebrate, diurnal, or managed pollinators.
“The decline in pollinator populations is driven by factors like climate change, habitat loss, and agricultural intensification. This study reinforces the urgency of mitigating these threats to safeguard both biodiversity and the ecosystem services we rely on,” says Ainhoa Magrach.
The paper concluded that protecting pollinator biodiversity is not only vital for preserving nature but also essential for ensuring agricultural productivity and ecosystem stability in a rapidly changing world.
Paper details:
Title: Loss of pollinator diversity consistently reduces reproductive success for wild and cultivated plants
Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-024-02595-2
Doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02595-2
Authors: Maddi Artamendi, Philip A. Martin, Ignasi Bartomeus, Ainhoa Magrach
