Farmers know that a healthy pollinator population is critical for their crops. One way to gauge how healthy a population and its environment are, is through examining how much diversity there is: the more kinds of organisms and species, the healthier the system.
In the desert southwest, researchers are studying bee populations that are quite diverse — and highly specialized. The extreme conditions of the desert have led bees there to develop unique adaptations in order to survive: some species only feed on and pollinate particular plants, some have developed ways to go long periods without water, and other solutions are still being discovered.
Researchers are looking at the bees’ genetic profiles, behavior, and more to learn about how they can benefit pollinator populations everywhere. Learn more about these fascinating bees.