Effect of imidacloprid, profenofos, and abamectin on the flight activity of stingless bee, Tetragonula laeviceps Smith (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Meliponini)

This title has been presented on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 15.40-15.50 GMT+7.

Abstract

This title has been presented on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 15.40-15.50 GMT+7.

Bees have a significant role in helping pollinate in agriculture. The intensive use of insecticides is thought to be one of the causes of colony collapse disorder (CCD) or the massive reduction in the number of bee colonies worldwide. This study aimed to determine the effect of imidacloprid, profenofos, and abamectin insecticides on the flying activity of Tetragonula laeviceps Smith. The research was conducted in a screen house (6.5 x 6.5 x 2.5 m in length, width, and height, respectively). The methods include land preparation, planting, and application of insecticides containing the active ingredients imidacloprid 200 g/l, profenofos 500 g/l, and abamectin 18 g/l, with formulation concentrations of 4 g/l, 1 ml/l, and 2 ml/l, respectively as well as observing the activity of T. laeviceps bees on tomato plants. The results showed that imidacloprid and profenofos treatments significantly affected the activity of entering and leaving beehives compared to abamectin and control. The three insecticides also affect the length and number of visits to flowers and plants after spraying. The insecticide application affects the flying activity and can cause death in bees. This will affect the pollination process in plants and reduce agricultural productivity.