Effect of Fungicide on Pollen Foraging by Honeybees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in Cranberry Differs by Fungicide Type

Honeybees (Apis mellifera Linnaeus) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) play a major role in the pollination of cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon; Ericaceae). However, fungicide applications during cranberry bloom may affect bees foraging behavior. This research reports the amount of cranberry and noncranberry pollen brought back to hives immediately before and after two types of fungicide applications. The amount of cranberry pollen decreased while the amount of noncranberry pollen increased following a fungicide application. However, this relationship differed depending on the type of fungicide applied. Understanding how different fungicides specifically impact bee behavior is essential to minimizing bee exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.