USDA Researchers Help Honeybees Keep Pollinating Our Food Crops

Honeybees significantly impact the US economy by providing essential pollination services for various crops, starting with almonds in California. The USDA prioritizes maintaining healthy bee colonies, with research focusing on nutrition, stressors, and genomics to combat threats like viruses and pests. This research not only supports agriculture but also enhances global ecosystems and biodiversity.

What is the estimated annual economic contribution of honeybees to the US economy?

Why is it important to keep bee colonies healthy according to the US Department of Agriculture?

What are some of the stressors that honeybees are exposed to?

How do ARS scientists aim to improve honeybee health?

In addition to agriculture, what other contributions do honeybees make?