Honey Bees

By Ethan Schmidt

Honey bees play an enormous role in producing the highest quality fruit and vegetables that we consume. In 2000 the agriculture industry estimated the honeybee population had a value of $14.6 billion. It was a 36.3% increase from previous years. Honey production is valued at $200 million, which in comparison is small. Out of 115 leading agricultural crops worldwide, 75% depend on the honey bee population. Honey bees increase the yield by 71%. They also make them taste better.

Bees have been dying at a high rate. Between 2008 and 2013 the populations have decreased by 23% in America. Research has indicated that farmers in the US may experience increased cost and destabilization in crop production. Domestic bees are also showing decreasing trends. 44% of the beekeeper colonies were lost in the United States between 2015 and 2016. Their numbers appear to be getting worse every year.

There are many reasons the bees are declining. In 2009 Brown and Paxton assessed the major threats to bee diversity. They created a list of strategies to help them. Some examples include the minimization of habitat loss and degradation, adding bee-friendly features to agricultural areas, increase the studies to bees, and promoting public education. Saving the honey bee starts by collaborating with wild bee habitat restoration efforts, reducing harmful pesticides, and spreading knowledge about it.

Another important reason they are dying is the Verona mite. It is a small round mite that can destroy colonies if it is left untreated. They can act as a vector for severe diseases. This is why it is important to keep the hives sanitary.