Toxic pollen and the mad bee disease disaster
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/mar/29/toxic-pollen-mad-bee-disease?INTCMP=SRCH
Beekeepers have long felt pesticides were to blame for colony collapse disorder, but culpability was difficult to prove – until now
****************************************************************
Pesticides linked to honeybee decline
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/mar/29/crop-pesticides-honeybee-decline?INTCMP=SRCH
The first study conducted in a natural environment has shown that systemic pesticides damage bees' ability to navigate
http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2009/4/2/1238679758490/Week-in-wildlife--A-honey-001.jpg
A honeybee pollinates a flower in a citrus grove just coming into blossom. Photograph: David Silverman/Getty Images
Common crop pesticides have been shown for the first time to seriously harm bees by damaging their renowned ability to navigate home.
The new research strongly links the pesticides to the serious decline in honey bee numbers in the US and UK – a drop of around 50% in the last 25 years. The losses pose a threat to food supplies as bees pollinate a third of the food we eat such as tomatoes, beans, apples and strawberries.
Scientists found that bees consuming one pesticide suffered an 85% loss in the number of queens their nests produced, while another study showed a doubling in "disappeared" bees – those that failed to return from food foraging trips. The significance of the new work, published Science, is that it is the first carried out in realistic, open-air conditions.
"People had found pretty trivial effects in lab and greenhouse experiments, but we have shown they can translate into really big effects in the field. This has transformed our understanding," said Prof David Goulson, at the University of Stirling and leader of one of the research teams. "If it's only one metre from where they forage in a lab to their nest, even an unwell bee can manage that."
Prof Mickaël Henry, at INRA in Avignon, France, who led a separate research team, said:
"Under the effects we saw from the pesticides, the population size would decline disastrously, and make them even more sensitive to parasites or a lack of food."
The reason for the huge decline in bee numbers has remained uncertain, but pesticides, the varroa mite and other parasites, and destruction of the flower-rich habitats in which bees feed are believed to be the key reasons. Pesticide manufacturers and the UK government deny a class of the chemicals called neonicotinoids cause significant problems for bees, but Germany, Italy and France have suspended key insecticides over such fears.
A spokesperson from Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said the new research did not change the government's position.
"The UK has a robust system for assessing risks from pesticides and all the evidence shows neonicotinoids do not pose an unacceptable risk to honeybees when products are used correctly. However, we will not hesitate to act if presented with any new evidence." Henry said the new research showed current approval processes for the pesticides are inadequate: "We now have enough data to say authorisation processes must take into account not only the lethal effects, but also the effects of non-lethal doses."
The pesticides investigated in the new studies - insect neurotoxins called neonicotinoids - are applied to seeds and flow through the plants' whole system. The environmental advantage of this is it reduces pesticide spraying but chemicals end up in the nectar and pollen on which bees feed. Goulson's group studied an extremely widely used type called imidacloprid, primarily manufactured by Bayer CropScience, and registered for use on over 140 crops in 120 countries.
Bumblebees were fed the toxin at the same level found in treated rape plants and found that these colonies were about 10% smaller than those not exposed to the insecticide. Most strikingly, the exposed colonies lost almost all of their ability to produce queens, which are the only bee to survive the winter and establish new colonies. "There was a staggering magnitude of effect," said Goulson. "This is likely to have a substantial population-level impact."
The French team analysed the effect on honey bees of a new generation neonicotinoid, called thiamethoxam and manufactured by Syngenta. They fitted tiny electronic tags to over 650 bees and monitored their activity around the hive. Those exposed to "commonly encountered" levels of thiamethoxam suffered high mortality, with up to a third of the bees failing to return. "They disappeared in much higher numbers than expected," said Henry. Previous scientific work has shown insect neurotoxins may cause memory, learning, and navigation problems in bees.
A spokesman for Syngenta said: "Although we take good research very seriously, over the last four years, independent authorities in France have closely monitored the use of Cruiser – the product containing thiamethoxam – on more than 1.9m hectares. When properly used no cases of bee mortality have been recorded."
Julian Little, spokesman for Bayer Cropscience, criticised Goulson's study because the bees were exposed to imidacloprid in the labaratory, before being placed outside in a natural field environment to feed. "All studies looking at the interaction of bees and pesticides must be done in a full field situation," he said. "This study does not demonstrate that current agricultural practices damage bee colonies."
Goulson dismissed as "nonsense" Little's suggestion that the doses given to the bees were higher than in reality. Both Bayer and Defra suggested other field studies had shown no harmful effects to bees. Goulson said: "If they have done these studies, where are they? They are not in the public domain and therefore cannot be scrutinised. That raises the question of just how good they are."
Pesticides cause bees to lose their bearings
If they eat the wrong thing, bees cannot find their way home. Two new studies confirm that a group of widely used pesticides subtly affect the insects' behaviour, and may be partly to blame for their falling populations.
Neonicotinoid pesticides are used around the world to protect major crops like oilseed rape (canola). But studies have suggested that they are harmful to bees – they make them more susceptible to gut parasites, for example.
In field tests of 75 colonies of buff-tailed bumblebees (Bombus terrestris), David Goulson at the University of Stirling, UK, and colleagues found that food treated with realistic levels of one neonicotinoid, called imidacloprid, dramatically slows their spring population growth.
Dosed colonies also produced 85 per cent fewer queens than control colonies – a major problem as only the new queens survive the winter to found new colonies the following year.
Navigation failure
A second study offers a possible explanation. Mickaël Henry of the National Institute for Agricultural Research in Avignon, France, and colleagues fed low levels of another neonicotinoid, thiamethoxam, to colonies of European honey bees Apis mellifera.
Dosed bees were less likely to return to their hives after foraging, suggesting that the pesticide impaired their ability to navigate.
The findings will add weight to calls for neonicotinoids to be banned, or more strictly regulated. Germany, France and Slovenia already have strict limits on their use, and US beekeepers recently petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency to ban another neonicotinoid, clothianidin.
Goulson says the most important thing is to improve the testing of new insecticides. The tests are typically done in the lab and focus on whether the insecticide kills desirable insects like bees, but cannot detect subtle effects on navigation – effects that can be critical in the wild.
Journal references: Goulson et al: Science, DOI: 10.1126/science.1215025; Henry et al: Science, DOI: 10.1126/science.1215039
Press Release – January 10, 2012
New research should nail the coffin lid shut on a toxic bee-killing pesticide
Entire food chain found to be contaminated, from soil to pollen to dead bees
Contact Laurel Hopwood, 216-371-9779 (EST)
Tom Theobald 303-652-2266 (MST)
Neil Carman, PhD. 512-288-5772 / cell 512-663-9594 (CST)
The Sierra Club, with over 1.3 million members and supporters, calls on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to immediately suspend the registration of the insecticide clothianidin, based on new scientific evidence of extensive contamination in bees and soil.
Last week (January 3, 2012) scientists at Purdue University documented major adverse impacts from clothianidin, used as a seed treatment in corn, on honey bee health. The results showed clothianidin present in foraging areas long after treated seed has been planted.
The study raises questions about the long term survival of this major pollinator.
"This research should nail the coffin lid shut on clothianidin", says Laurel Hopwood, Sierra Club's Chairwoman of the Genetic Engineering Action Team. "Despite numerous attempts by the beekeeping industry and conservation organizations to persuade the EPA to ban clothianidin, the EPA has failed to protect the food supply for the American people."
Tom Theobald, a founding member of the Boulder County Beekeeper's Association explains, "In 2010, I got hold of an EPA document revealing that the agency has been allowing the widespread use of this bee-toxic pesticide, against evidence that it's highly toxic to bees. Clothianidin has failed to meet the requirements for registration. It's continued use is in violation of the law."
Upon learning of the EPA's failures, the National Honey Bee Advisory Board, the American Beekeeping Federation and The American Honey Producer's Association urged the agency in a 12/8/2010 letter to cancel the registration of this pesticide. Yet despite the fact that clothianidin had failed a critical life cycle study which was required for registration, the agency responded in a 2/18/2011 letter stating "At this time, we are not aware of any data that reasonably demonstrates that bee colonies are subject to elevated losses due to chronic exposure to this pesticide. EPA does not intend at this time to initiate suspension or cancellation actions against the registered uses of clothianidin. If scientific information shows a particular pesticide is posing unreasonable risk to pollinators, we stand ready to take the necessary regulatory action."
Neil Carman, PhD, scientific advisor to Sierra Club, is troubled by EPA's complacency. "A huge shoe has dropped. U.S. researchers have documented major adverse impacts from clothianidin seed treatments in corn on honey bee health." Carman further explains "Because of the vital role played by honey bees in crop pollination, honey bee demise threatens the production of crops that produce one-third of American diets, including nearly 100 fruits and vegetables. The value of crops pollinated by bees exceeds $15 billion in the U.S. alone."
Hopwood exclaims, "The time is now for EPA to quit dodging the illusion of oversight and instead, cancel this bee- killing pesticide. If we travel too far down our current path, we could create conditions in our food system much like those that brought down the financial system."
XXX
-=-=-=-=-=-=-
I've received a rather long but worthwhile communication from Dr Rosemary Mason which I'll quote in part and give links to more. It's a summary and critique of a US SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry) conference which dealt with evaluation of systemic neonic pesticides. There are good references. She notes that, "the pesticide companies have total control over testing and registration of their own products."
"The most damning statement appears on page 12 of the SETAC report: 'Many who are familiar with pesticide risk assessment recognize that the methodology and testing scheme for foliar application products (where exposure may be primarily through surface contact) is not adapted to assess potential hazard and risk from systemic pesticides' ”.
. . ."for many years, the systemic pesticide risk assessments have only involved a basic Tier 1 analysis. Page 10 (“A Tier 1 analysis is a conservative screen that efficiently separates those compounds that will not present a potential risk from those compounds that may present a potential risk”). The report admits that these tests are only suitable for foliar pesticides, since they are based on “the determination of the length of time between application and when bees could be safely exposed to residues on leaves and flowers of a treated crop”. When pesticides are coated on the seed, bees cannot be protected, because toxins are excreted in pollen and nectar and can be foraged for the whole flowering period. They are also secreted in guttation drops, a physiological exudate from the xylem of plants, which bees often drink 1,2. Consumption of these on seedlings has been shown to cause death within a few minutes 1.
My take is that the report points out the need to develop and apply better tests while meanwhile allowing these pesticides to be used -- a reasonable ask while at the same time no change to the status quo.
Links:
CATCH THE BUZZ - SETAC Summary. We have a problem. EZezine:
http://home.ezezine.com/1636/1636-2011.10.20.08.48.archive.html
Report itself:
http://www.setac.org/sites/default/files/executivesummarypollinators_20sep2011.pdf
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
More from Pesticide Action Network:
In the last four months, 1.2 million people around the world have raised their voices on behalf of bees – urging officials to take decisive, precautionary action by suspending a class of pesticides (neonicotinoids) known to undermine honey bee immunity.
Following the "leaked memo" in December, 10,000+ PAN supporters petitioned the agency to pull clothianidin (a neonicotinoid) until the science supporting its registration is re-done right and in partnership with beekeepers. You’re a part of this global movement, and your support made it possible for PAN to work behind the scenes to break that “leaked memo” story. Thank you.
Apparently, it’s time to get louder» EPA responded to the pressure, agreeing to move up their review of this family of pesticides and improve the science behind bee decisions (which is good!). But they declined to take action on a timeline that will be meaningful for bees or beekeepers. We don't have the 5+ years it will take for these decisions to play out. Bees need help now. Sign our petition to help us get this message through loud and clear.
It’s true that the science hasn’t yet settled on any one cause of Colony Collapse Disorder, and likely it won’t because there are multiple causes acting in concert. Here’s what we know:
• Scientists believe that immune system suppression is at the root of CCD and the declines in other indicator species such as frogs and bats. Neonicotinoids that are known to suppress honey bees’ immune systems in microscopic doses.
• Bees face a combination of stressors, including pathogens, habitat loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
s to more. It's a summary and critique of a US SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry) conference which dealt with evaluation of systemic neonic pesticides. There are good references. She notes that, "the pesticide companies have total control over testing and registration of their own products."
"The most damning statement appears on page 12 of the SETAC report: 'Many who are familiar with pesticide risk assessment recognize that the methodology and testing scheme for foliar application products (where exposure may be primarily through surface contact) is not adapted to assess potential hazard and risk from systemic pesticides' ”.
. . ."for many years, the systemic pesticide risk assessments have only involved a basic Tier 1 analysis. Page 10 (“A Tier 1 analysis is a conservative screen that efficiently separates those compounds that will not present a potential risk from those compounds that may present a potential risk”). The report admits that these tests are only suitable for foliar pesticides, since they are based on “the determination of the length of time between application and when bees could be safely exposed to residues on leaves and flowers of a treated crop”. When pesticides are coated on the seed, bees cannot be protected, because toxins are excreted in pollen and nectar and can be foraged for the whole flowering period. They are also secreted in guttation drops, a physiological exudate from the xylem of plants, which bees often drink 1,2. Consumption of these on seedlings has been shown to cause death within a few minutes 1.
My take is that the report points out the need to develop and apply better tests while meanwhile allowing these pesticides to be used -- a reasonable ask while at the same time no change to the status quo.
Links:
CATCH THE BUZZ - SETAC Summary. We have a problem. EZezine:
http://home.ezezine.com/1636/1636-2011.10.20.08.48.archive.html
Report itself:
http://www.setac.org/sites/default/files/executivesummarypollinators_20sep2011.pdf
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
More from Pesticide Action Network:
In the last four months, 1.2 million people around the world have raised their voices on behalf of bees – urging officials to take decisive, precautionary action by suspending a class of pesticides (neonicotinoids) known to undermine honey bee immunity.
Following the "leaked memo" in December, 10,000+ PAN supporters petitioned the agency to pull clothianidin (a neonicotinoid) until the science supporting its registration is re-done right and in partnership with beekeepers. You’re a part of this global movement, and your support made it possible for PAN to work behind the scenes to break that “leaked memo” story. Thank you.
Apparently, it’s time to get louder» EPA responded to the pressure, agreeing to move up their review of this family of pesticides and improve the science behind bee decisions (which is good!). But they declined to take action on a timeline that will be meaningful for bees or beekeepers. We don't have the 5+ years it will take for these decisions to play out. Bees need help now. Sign our petition to help us get this message through loud and clear.
It’s true that the science hasn’t yet settled on any one cause of Colony Collapse Disorder, and likely it won’t because there are multiple causes acting in concert. Here’s what we know:
• Scientists believe that immune system suppression is at the root of CCD and the declines in other indicator species such as frogs and bats. Neonicotinoids that are known to suppress honey bees’ immune systems in microscopic doses.
• Bees face a combination of stressors, including pathogens, habitat loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ng pesticide
Entire food chain found to be contaminated, from soil to pollen to dead bees
Contact Laurel Hopwood, 216-371-9779 (EST)
Tom Theobald 303-652-2266 (MST)
Neil Carman, PhD. 512-288-5772 / cell 512-663-9594 (CST)
The Sierra Club, with over 1.3 million members and supporters, calls on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to immediately suspend the registration of the insecticide clothianidin, based on new scientific evidence of extensive contamination in bees and soil.
Last week (January 3, 2012) scientists at Purdue University documented major adverse impacts from clothianidin, used as a seed treatment in corn, on honey bee health. The results showed clothianidin present in foraging areas long after treated seed has been planted.
The study raises questions about the long term survival of this major pollinator.
"This research should nail the coffin lid shut on clothianidin", says Laurel Hopwood, Sierra Club's Chairwoman of the Genetic Engineering Action Team. "Despite numerous attempts by the beekeeping industry and conservation organizations to persuade the EPA to ban clothianidin, the EPA has failed to protect the food supply for the American people."
Tom Theobald, a founding member of the Boulder County Beekeeper's Association explains, "In 2010, I got hold of an EPA document revealing that the agency has been allowing the widespread use of this bee-toxic pesticide, against evidence that it's highly toxic to bees. Clothianidin has failed to meet the requirements for registration. It's continued use is in violation of the law."
Upon learning of the EPA's failures, the National Honey Bee Advisory Board, the American Beekeeping Federation and The American Honey Producer's Association urged the agency in a 12/8/2010 letter to cancel the registration of this pesticide. Yet despite the fact that clothianidin had failed a critical life cycle study which was required for registration, the agency responded in a 2/18/2011 letter stating "At this time, we are not aware of any data that reasonably demonstrates that bee colonies are subject to elevated losses due to chronic exposure to this pesticide. EPA does not intend at this time to initiate suspension or cancellation actions against the registered uses of clothianidin. If scientific information shows a particular pesticide is posing unreasonable risk to pollinators, we stand ready to take the necessary regulatory action."
Neil Carman, PhD, scientific advisor to Sierra Club, is troubled by EPA's complacency. "A huge shoe has dropped. U.S. researchers have documented major adverse impacts from clothianidin seed treatments in corn on honey bee health." Carman further explains "Because of the vital role played by honey bees in crop pollination, honey bee demise threatens the production of crops that produce one-third of American diets, including nearly 100 fruits and vegetables. The value of crops pollinated by bees exceeds $15 billion in the U.S. alone."
Hopwood exclaims, "The time is now for EPA to quit dodging the illusion of oversight and instead, cancel this bee- killing pesticide. If we travel too far down our current path, we could create conditions in our food system much like those that brought down the financial system."
XXX
-=-=-=-=-=-=-
I've received a rather long but worthwhile communication from Dr Rosemary Mason which I'll quote in part and give links to more. It's a summary and critique of a US SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry) conference which dealt with evaluation of systemic neonic pesticides. There are good references. She notes that, "the pesticide companies have total control over testing and registration of their own products."
"The most damning statement appears on page 12 of the SETAC report: 'Many who are familiar with pesticide risk assessment recognize that the methodology and testing scheme for foliar application products (where exposure may be primarily through surface contact) is not adapted to assess potential hazard and risk from systemic pesticides' ”.
. . ."for many years, the systemic pesticide risk assessments have only involved a basic Tier 1 analysis. Page 10 (“A Tier 1 analysis is a conservative screen that efficiently separates those compounds that will not present a potential risk from those compounds that may present a potential risk”). The report admits that these tests are only suitable for foliar pesticides, since they are based on “the determination of the length of time between application and when bees could be safely exposed to residues on leaves and flowers of a treated crop”. When pesticides are coated on the seed, bees cannot be protected, because toxins are excreted in pollen and nectar and can be foraged for the whole flowering period. They are also secreted in guttation drops, a physiological exudate from the xylem of plants, which bees often drink 1,2. Consumption of these on seedlings has been shown to cause death within a few minutes 1.
My take is that the report points out the need to develop and apply better tests while meanwhile allowing these pesticides to be used -- a reasonable ask while at the same time no change to the status quo.
Links:
CATCH THE BUZZ - SETAC Summary. We have a problem. EZezine:
http://home.ezezine.com/1636/1636-2011.10.20.08.48.archive.html
Report itself:
http://www.setac.org/sites/default/files/executivesummarypollinators_20sep2011.pdf
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
More from Pesticide Action Network:
In the last four months, 1.2 million people around the world have raised their voices on behalf of bees – urging officials to take decisive, precautionary action by suspending a class of pesticides (neonicotinoids) known to undermine honey bee immunity.
Following the "leaked memo" in December, 10,000+ PAN supporters petitioned the agency to pull clothianidin (a neonicotinoid) until the science supporting its registration is re-done right and in partnership with beekeepers. You’re a part of this global movement, and your support made it possible for PAN to work behind the scenes to break that “leaked memo” story. Thank you.
Apparently, it’s time to get louder» EPA responded to the pressure, agreeing to move up their review of this family of pesticides and improve the science behind bee decisions (which is good!). But they declined to take action on a timeline that will be meaningful for bees or beekeepers. We don't have the 5+ years it will take for these decisions to play out. Bees need help now. Sign our petition to help us get this message through loud and clear.
It’s true that the science hasn’t yet settled on any one cause of Colony Collapse Disorder, and likely it won’t because there are multiple causes acting in concert. Here’s what we know:
• Scientists believe that immune system suppression is at the root of CCD and the declines in other indicator species such as frogs and bats. Neonicotinoids that are known to suppress honey bees’ immune systems in microscopic doses.
• Bees face a combination of stressors, including pathogens, habitat loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
s to more. It's a summary and critique of a US SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry) conference which dealt with evaluation of systemic neonic pesticides. There are good references. She notes that, "the pesticide companies have total control over testing and registration of their own products."
"The most damning statement appears on page 12 of the SETAC report: 'Many who are familiar with pesticide risk assessment recognize that the methodology and testing scheme for foliar application products (where exposure may be primarily through surface contact) is not adapted to assess potential hazard and risk from systemic pesticides' ”.
. . ."for many years, the systemic pesticide risk assessments have only involved a basic Tier 1 analysis. Page 10 (“A Tier 1 analysis is a conservative screen that efficiently separates those compounds that will not present a potential risk from those compounds that may present a potential risk”). The report admits that these tests are only suitable for foliar pesticides, since they are based on “the determination of the length of time between application and when bees could be safely exposed to residues on leaves and flowers of a treated crop”. When pesticides are coated on the seed, bees cannot be protected, because toxins are excreted in pollen and nectar and can be foraged for the whole flowering period. They are also secreted in guttation drops, a physiological exudate from the xylem of plants, which bees often drink 1,2. Consumption of these on seedlings has been shown to cause death within a few minutes 1.
My take is that the report points out the need to develop and apply better tests while meanwhile allowing these pesticides to be used -- a reasonable ask while at the same time no change to the status quo.
Links:
CATCH THE BUZZ - SETAC Summary. We have a problem. EZezine:
http://home.ezezine.com/1636/1636-2011.10.20.08.48.archive.html
Report itself:
http://www.setac.org/sites/default/files/executivesummarypollinators_20sep2011.pdf
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
More from Pesticide Action Network:
In the last four months, 1.2 million people around the world have raised their voices on behalf of bees – urging officials to take decisive, precautionary action by suspending a class of pesticides (neonicotinoids) known to undermine honey bee immunity.
Following the "leaked memo" in December, 10,000+ PAN supporters petitioned the agency to pull clothianidin (a neonicotinoid) until the science supporting its registration is re-done right and in partnership with beekeepers. You’re a part of this global movement, and your support made it possible for PAN to work behind the scenes to break that “leaked memo” story. Thank you.
Apparently, it’s time to get louder» EPA responded to the pressure, agreeing to move up their review of this family of pesticides and improve the science behind bee decisions (which is good!). But they declined to take action on a timeline that will be meaningful for bees or beekeepers. We don't have the 5+ years it will take for these decisions to play out. Bees need help now. Sign our petition to help us get this message through loud and clear.
It’s true that the science hasn’t yet settled on any one cause of Colony Collapse Disorder, and likely it won’t because there are multiple causes acting in concert. Here’s what we know:
• Scientists believe that immune system suppression is at the root of CCD and the declines in other indicator species such as frogs and bats. Neonicotinoids that are known to suppress honey bees’ immune systems in microscopic doses.
• Bees face a combination of stressors, including pathogens, habitat loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
, but also the effects of non-lethal doses."
The pesticides investigated in the new studies - insect neurotoxins called neonicotinoids - are applied to seeds and flow through the plants' whole system. The environmental advantage of this is it reduces pesticide spraying but chemicals end up in the nectar and pollen on which bees feed. Goulson's group studied an extremely widely used type called imidacloprid, primarily manufactured by Bayer CropScience, and registered for use on over 140 crops in 120 countries.
Bumblebees were fed the toxin at the same level found in treated rape plants and found that these colonies were about 10% smaller than those not exposed to the insecticide. Most strikingly, the exposed colonies lost almost all of their ability to produce queens, which are the only bee to survive the winter and establish new colonies. "There was a staggering magnitude of effect," said Goulson. "This is likely to have a substantial population-level impact."
The French team analysed the effect on honey bees of a new generation neonicotinoid, called thiamethoxam and manufactured by Syngenta. They fitted tiny electronic tags to over 650 bees and monitored their activity around the hive. Those exposed to "commonly encountered" levels of thiamethoxam suffered high mortality, with up to a third of the bees failing to return. "They disappeared in much higher numbers than expected," said Henry. Previous scientific work has shown insect neurotoxins may cause memory, learning, and navigation problems in bees.
A spokesman for Syngenta said: "Although we take good research very seriously, over the last four years, independent authorities in France have closely monitored the use of Cruiser – the product containing thiamethoxam – on more than 1.9m hectares. When properly used no cases of bee mortality have been recorded."
Julian Little, spokesman for Bayer Cropscience, criticised Goulson's study because the bees were exposed to imidacloprid in the labaratory, before being placed outside in a natural field environment to feed. "All studies looking at the interaction of bees and pesticides must be done in a full field situation," he said. "This study does not demonstrate that current agricultural practices damage bee colonies."
Goulson dismissed as "nonsense" Little's suggestion that the doses given to the bees were higher than in reality. Both Bayer and Defra suggested other field studies had shown no harmful effects to bees. Goulson said: "If they have done these studies, where are they? They are not in the public domain and therefore cannot be scrutinised. That raises the question of just how good they are."
Pesticides cause bees to lose their bearings
If they eat the wrong thing, bees cannot find their way home. Two new studies confirm that a group of widely used pesticides subtly affect the insects' behaviour, and may be partly to blame for their falling populations.
Neonicotinoid pesticides are used around the world to protect major crops like oilseed rape (canola). But studies have suggested that they are harmful to bees – they make them more susceptible to gut parasites, for example.
In field tests of 75 colonies of buff-tailed bumblebees (Bombus terrestris), David Goulson at the University of Stirling, UK, and colleagues found that food treated with realistic levels of one neonicotinoid, called imidacloprid, dramatically slows their spring population growth.
Dosed colonies also produced 85 per cent fewer queens than control colonies – a major problem as only the new queens survive the winter to found new colonies the following year.
Navigation failure
A second study offers a possible explanation. Mickaël Henry of the National Institute for Agricultural Research in Avignon, France, and colleagues fed low levels of another neonicotinoid, thiamethoxam, to colonies of European honey bees Apis mellifera.
Dosed bees were less likely to return to their hives after foraging, suggesting that the pesticide impaired their ability to navigate.
The findings will add weight to calls for neonicotinoids to be banned, or more strictly regulated. Germany, France and Slovenia already have strict limits on their use, and US beekeepers recently petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency to ban another neonicotinoid, clothianidin.
Goulson says the most important thing is to improve the testing of new insecticides. The tests are typically done in the lab and focus on whether the insecticide kills desirable insects like bees, but cannot detect subtle effects on navigation – effects that can be critical in the wild.
Journal references: Goulson et al: Science, DOI: 10.1126/science.1215025; Henry et al: Science, DOI: 10.1126/science.1215039
Press Release – January 10, 2012
New research should nail the coffin lid shut on a toxic bee-killing pesticide
Entire food chain found to be contaminated, from soil to pollen to dead bees
Contact Laurel Hopwood, 216-371-9779 (EST)
Tom Theobald 303-652-2266 (MST)
Neil Carman, PhD. 512-288-5772 / cell 512-663-9594 (CST)
The Sierra Club, with over 1.3 million members and supporters, calls on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to immediately suspend the registration of the insecticide clothianidin, based on new scientific evidence of extensive contamination in bees and soil.
Last week (January 3, 2012) scientists at Purdue University documented major adverse impacts from clothianidin, used as a seed treatment in corn, on honey bee health. The results showed clothianidin present in foraging areas long after treated seed has been planted.
The study raises questions about the long term survival of this major pollinator.
"This research should nail the coffin lid shut on clothianidin", says Laurel Hopwood, Sierra Club's Chairwoman of the Genetic Engineering Action Team. "Despite numerous attempts by the beekeeping industry and conservation organizations to persuade the EPA to ban clothianidin, the EPA has failed to protect the food supply for the American people."
Tom Theobald, a founding member of the Boulder County Beekeeper's Association explains, "In 2010, I got hold of an EPA document revealing that the agency has been allowing the widespread use of this bee-toxic pesticide, against evidence that it's highly toxic to bees. Clothianidin has failed to meet the requirements for registration. It's continued use is in violation of the law."
Upon learning of the EPA's failures, the National Honey Bee Advisory Board, the American Beekeeping Federation and The American Honey Producer's Association urged the agency in a 12/8/2010 letter to cancel the registration of this pesticide. Yet despite the fact that clothianidin had failed a critical life cycle study which was required for registration, the agency responded in a 2/18/2011 letter stating "At this time, we are not aware of any data that reasonably demonstrates that bee colonies are subject to elevated losses due to chronic exposure to this pesticide. EPA does not intend at this time to initiate suspension or cancellation actions against the registered uses of clothianidin. If scientific information shows a particular pesticide is posing unreasonable risk to pollinators, we stand ready to take the necessary regulatory action."
Neil Carman, PhD, scientific advisor to Sierra Club, is troubled by EPA's complacency. "A huge shoe has dropped. U.S. researchers have documented major adverse impacts from clothianidin seed treatments in corn on honey bee health." Carman further explains "Because of the vital role played by honey bees in crop pollination, honey bee demise threatens the production of crops that produce one-third of American diets, including nearly 100 fruits and vegetables. The value of crops pollinated by bees exceeds $15 billion in the U.S. alone."
Hopwood exclaims, "The time is now for EPA to quit dodging the illusion of oversight and instead, cancel this bee- killing pesticide. If we travel too far down our current path, we could create conditions in our food system much like those that brought down the financial system."
XXX
-=-=-=-=-=-=-
I've received a rather long but worthwhile communication from Dr Rosemary Mason which I'll quote in part and give links to more. It's a summary and critique of a US SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry) conference which dealt with evaluation of systemic neonic pesticides. There are good references. She notes that, "the pesticide companies have total control over testing and registration of their own products."
"The most damning statement appears on page 12 of the SETAC report: 'Many who are familiar with pesticide risk assessment recognize that the methodology and testing scheme for foliar application products (where exposure may be primarily through surface contact) is not adapted to assess potential hazard and risk from systemic pesticides' ”.
. . ."for many years, the systemic pesticide risk assessments have only involved a basic Tier 1 analysis. Page 10 (“A Tier 1 analysis is a conservative screen that efficiently separates those compounds that will not present a potential risk from those compounds that may present a potential risk”). The report admits that these tests are only suitable for foliar pesticides, since they are based on “the determination of the length of time between application and when bees could be safely exposed to residues on leaves and flowers of a treated crop”. When pesticides are coated on the seed, bees cannot be protected, because toxins are excreted in pollen and nectar and can be foraged for the whole flowering period. They are also secreted in guttation drops, a physiological exudate from the xylem of plants, which bees often drink 1,2. Consumption of these on seedlings has been shown to cause death within a few minutes 1.
My take is that the report points out the need to develop and apply better tests while meanwhile allowing these pesticides to be used -- a reasonable ask while at the same time no change to the status quo.
Links:
CATCH THE BUZZ - SETAC Summary. We have a problem. EZezine:
http://home.ezezine.com/1636/1636-2011.10.20.08.48.archive.html
Report itself:
http://www.setac.org/sites/default/files/executivesummarypollinators_20sep2011.pdf
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
More from Pesticide Action Network:
In the last four months, 1.2 million people around the world have raised their voices on behalf of bees – urging officials to take decisive, precautionary action by suspending a class of pesticides (neonicotinoids) known to undermine honey bee immunity.
Following the "leaked memo" in December, 10,000+ PAN supporters petitioned the agency to pull clothianidin (a neonicotinoid) until the science supporting its registration is re-done right and in partnership with beekeepers. You’re a part of this global movement, and your support made it possible for PAN to work behind the scenes to break that “leaked memo” story. Thank you.
Apparently, it’s time to get louder» EPA responded to the pressure, agreeing to move up their review of this family of pesticides and improve the science behind bee decisions (which is good!). But they declined to take action on a timeline that will be meaningful for bees or beekeepers. We don't have the 5+ years it will take for these decisions to play out. Bees need help now. Sign our petition to help us get this message through loud and clear.
It’s true that the science hasn’t yet settled on any one cause of Colony Collapse Disorder, and likely it won’t because there are multiple causes acting in concert. Here’s what we know:
• Scientists believe that immune system suppression is at the root of CCD and the declines in other indicator species such as frogs and bats. Neonicotinoids that are known to suppress honey bees’ immune systems in microscopic doses.
• Bees face a combination of stressors, including pathogens, habitat loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
s to more. It's a summary and critique of a US SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry) conference which dealt with evaluation of systemic neonic pesticides. There are good references. She notes that, "the pesticide companies have total control over testing and registration of their own products."
"The most damning statement appears on page 12 of the SETAC report: 'Many who are familiar with pesticide risk assessment recognize that the methodology and testing scheme for foliar application products (where exposure may be primarily through surface contact) is not adapted to assess potential hazard and risk from systemic pesticides' ”.
. . ."for many years, the systemic pesticide risk assessments have only involved a basic Tier 1 analysis. Page 10 (“A Tier 1 analysis is a conservative screen that efficiently separates those compounds that will not present a potential risk from those compounds that may present a potential risk”). The report admits that these tests are only suitable for foliar pesticides, since they are based on “the determination of the length of time between application and when bees could be safely exposed to residues on leaves and flowers of a treated crop”. When pesticides are coated on the seed, bees cannot be protected, because toxins are excreted in pollen and nectar and can be foraged for the whole flowering period. They are also secreted in guttation drops, a physiological exudate from the xylem of plants, which bees often drink 1,2. Consumption of these on seedlings has been shown to cause death within a few minutes 1.
My take is that the report points out the need to develop and apply better tests while meanwhile allowing these pesticides to be used -- a reasonable ask while at the same time no change to the status quo.
Links:
CATCH THE BUZZ - SETAC Summary. We have a problem. EZezine:
http://home.ezezine.com/1636/1636-2011.10.20.08.48.archive.html
Report itself:
http://www.setac.org/sites/default/files/executivesummarypollinators_20sep2011.pdf
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
More from Pesticide Action Network:
In the last four months, 1.2 million people around the world have raised their voices on behalf of bees – urging officials to take decisive, precautionary action by suspending a class of pesticides (neonicotinoids) known to undermine honey bee immunity.
Following the "leaked memo" in December, 10,000+ PAN supporters petitioned the agency to pull clothianidin (a neonicotinoid) until the science supporting its registration is re-done right and in partnership with beekeepers. You’re a part of this global movement, and your support made it possible for PAN to work behind the scenes to break that “leaked memo” story. Thank you.
Apparently, it’s time to get louder» EPA responded to the pressure, agreeing to move up their review of this family of pesticides and improve the science behind bee decisions (which is good!). But they declined to take action on a timeline that will be meaningful for bees or beekeepers. We don't have the 5+ years it will take for these decisions to play out. Bees need help now. Sign our petition to help us get this message through loud and clear.
It’s true that the science hasn’t yet settled on any one cause of Colony Collapse Disorder, and likely it won’t because there are multiple causes acting in concert. Here’s what we know:
• Scientists believe that immune system suppression is at the root of CCD and the declines in other indicator species such as frogs and bats. Neonicotinoids that are known to suppress honey bees’ immune systems in microscopic doses.
• Bees face a combination of stressors, including pathogens, habitat loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ng pesticide
Entire food chain found to be contaminated, from soil to pollen to dead bees
Contact Laurel Hopwood, 216-371-9779 (EST)
Tom Theobald 303-652-2266 (MST)
Neil Carman, PhD. 512-288-5772 / cell 512-663-9594 (CST)
The Sierra Club, with over 1.3 million members and supporters, calls on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to immediately suspend the registration of the insecticide clothianidin, based on new scientific evidence of extensive contamination in bees and soil.
Last week (January 3, 2012) scientists at Purdue University documented major adverse impacts from clothianidin, used as a seed treatment in corn, on honey bee health. The results showed clothianidin present in foraging areas long after treated seed has been planted.
The study raises questions about the long term survival of this major pollinator.
"This research should nail the coffin lid shut on clothianidin", says Laurel Hopwood, Sierra Club's Chairwoman of the Genetic Engineering Action Team. "Despite numerous attempts by the beekeeping industry and conservation organizations to persuade the EPA to ban clothianidin, the EPA has failed to protect the food supply for the American people."
Tom Theobald, a founding member of the Boulder County Beekeeper's Association explains, "In 2010, I got hold of an EPA document revealing that the agency has been allowing the widespread use of this bee-toxic pesticide, against evidence that it's highly toxic to bees. Clothianidin has failed to meet the requirements for registration. It's continued use is in violation of the law."
Upon learning of the EPA's failures, the National Honey Bee Advisory Board, the American Beekeeping Federation and The American Honey Producer's Association urged the agency in a 12/8/2010 letter to cancel the registration of this pesticide. Yet despite the fact that clothianidin had failed a critical life cycle study which was required for registration, the agency responded in a 2/18/2011 letter stating "At this time, we are not aware of any data that reasonably demonstrates that bee colonies are subject to elevated losses due to chronic exposure to this pesticide. EPA does not intend at this time to initiate suspension or cancellation actions against the registered uses of clothianidin. If scientific information shows a particular pesticide is posing unreasonable risk to pollinators, we stand ready to take the necessary regulatory action."
Neil Carman, PhD, scientific advisor to Sierra Club, is troubled by EPA's complacency. "A huge shoe has dropped. U.S. researchers have documented major adverse impacts from clothianidin seed treatments in corn on honey bee health." Carman further explains "Because of the vital role played by honey bees in crop pollination, honey bee demise threatens the production of crops that produce one-third of American diets, including nearly 100 fruits and vegetables. The value of crops pollinated by bees exceeds $15 billion in the U.S. alone."
Hopwood exclaims, "The time is now for EPA to quit dodging the illusion of oversight and instead, cancel this bee- killing pesticide. If we travel too far down our current path, we could create conditions in our food system much like those that brought down the financial system."
XXX
-=-=-=-=-=-=-
I've received a rather long but worthwhile communication from Dr Rosemary Mason which I'll quote in part and give links to more. It's a summary and critique of a US SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry) conference which dealt with evaluation of systemic neonic pesticides. There are good references. She notes that, "the pesticide companies have total control over testing and registration of their own products."
"The most damning statement appears on page 12 of the SETAC report: 'Many who are familiar with pesticide risk assessment recognize that the methodology and testing scheme for foliar application products (where exposure may be primarily through surface contact) is not adapted to assess potential hazard and risk from systemic pesticides' ”.
. . ."for many years, the systemic pesticide risk assessments have only involved a basic Tier 1 analysis. Page 10 (“A Tier 1 analysis is a conservative screen that efficiently separates those compounds that will not present a potential risk from those compounds that may present a potential risk”). The report admits that these tests are only suitable for foliar pesticides, since they are based on “the determination of the length of time between application and when bees could be safely exposed to residues on leaves and flowers of a treated crop”. When pesticides are coated on the seed, bees cannot be protected, because toxins are excreted in pollen and nectar and can be foraged for the whole flowering period. They are also secreted in guttation drops, a physiological exudate from the xylem of plants, which bees often drink 1,2. Consumption of these on seedlings has been shown to cause death within a few minutes 1.
My take is that the report points out the need to develop and apply better tests while meanwhile allowing these pesticides to be used -- a reasonable ask while at the same time no change to the status quo.
Links:
CATCH THE BUZZ - SETAC Summary. We have a problem. EZezine:
http://home.ezezine.com/1636/1636-2011.10.20.08.48.archive.html
Report itself:
http://www.setac.org/sites/default/files/executivesummarypollinators_20sep2011.pdf
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
More from Pesticide Action Network:
In the last four months, 1.2 million people around the world have raised their voices on behalf of bees – urging officials to take decisive, precautionary action by suspending a class of pesticides (neonicotinoids) known to undermine honey bee immunity.
Following the "leaked memo" in December, 10,000+ PAN supporters petitioned the agency to pull clothianidin (a neonicotinoid) until the science supporting its registration is re-done right and in partnership with beekeepers. You’re a part of this global movement, and your support made it possible for PAN to work behind the scenes to break that “leaked memo” story. Thank you.
Apparently, it’s time to get louder» EPA responded to the pressure, agreeing to move up their review of this family of pesticides and improve the science behind bee decisions (which is good!). But they declined to take action on a timeline that will be meaningful for bees or beekeepers. We don't have the 5+ years it will take for these decisions to play out. Bees need help now. Sign our petition to help us get this message through loud and clear.
It’s true that the science hasn’t yet settled on any one cause of Colony Collapse Disorder, and likely it won’t because there are multiple causes acting in concert. Here’s what we know:
• Scientists believe that immune system suppression is at the root of CCD and the declines in other indicator species such as frogs and bats. Neonicotinoids that are known to suppress honey bees’ immune systems in microscopic doses.
• Bees face a combination of stressors, including pathogens, habitat loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
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4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
s to more. It's a summary and critique of a US SETAC (Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry) conference which dealt with evaluation of systemic neonic pesticides. There are good references. She notes that, "the pesticide companies have total control over testing and registration of their own products."
"The most damning statement appears on page 12 of the SETAC report: 'Many who are familiar with pesticide risk assessment recognize that the methodology and testing scheme for foliar application products (where exposure may be primarily through surface contact) is not adapted to assess potential hazard and risk from systemic pesticides' ”.
. . ."for many years, the systemic pesticide risk assessments have only involved a basic Tier 1 analysis. Page 10 (“A Tier 1 analysis is a conservative screen that efficiently separates those compounds that will not present a potential risk from those compounds that may present a potential risk”). The report admits that these tests are only suitable for foliar pesticides, since they are based on “the determination of the length of time between application and when bees could be safely exposed to residues on leaves and flowers of a treated crop”. When pesticides are coated on the seed, bees cannot be protected, because toxins are excreted in pollen and nectar and can be foraged for the whole flowering period. They are also secreted in guttation drops, a physiological exudate from the xylem of plants, which bees often drink 1,2. Consumption of these on seedlings has been shown to cause death within a few minutes 1.
My take is that the report points out the need to develop and apply better tests while meanwhile allowing these pesticides to be used -- a reasonable ask while at the same time no change to the status quo.
Links:
CATCH THE BUZZ - SETAC Summary. We have a problem. EZezine:
http://home.ezezine.com/1636/1636-2011.10.20.08.48.archive.html
Report itself:
http://www.setac.org/sites/default/files/executivesummarypollinators_20sep2011.pdf
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More from Pesticide Action Network:
In the last four months, 1.2 million people around the world have raised their voices on behalf of bees – urging officials to take decisive, precautionary action by suspending a class of pesticides (neonicotinoids) known to undermine honey bee immunity.
Following the "leaked memo" in December, 10,000+ PAN supporters petitioned the agency to pull clothianidin (a neonicotinoid) until the science supporting its registration is re-done right and in partnership with beekeepers. You’re a part of this global movement, and your support made it possible for PAN to work behind the scenes to break that “leaked memo” story. Thank you.
Apparently, it’s time to get louder» EPA responded to the pressure, agreeing to move up their review of this family of pesticides and improve the science behind bee decisions (which is good!). But they declined to take action on a timeline that will be meaningful for bees or beekeepers. We don't have the 5+ years it will take for these decisions to play out. Bees need help now. Sign our petition to help us get this message through loud and clear.
It’s true that the science hasn’t yet settled on any one cause of Colony Collapse Disorder, and likely it won’t because there are multiple causes acting in concert. Here’s what we know:
• Scientists believe that immune system suppression is at the root of CCD and the declines in other indicator species such as frogs and bats. Neonicotinoids that are known to suppress honey bees’ immune systems in microscopic doses.
• Bees face a combination of stressors, including pathogens, habitat loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181
These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
loss (in part from broad-spectrum herbicides) and dozens of combined pesticides found in their hives. One common fungicide increases a neonicotinoid’s toxicity 1,000-fold.
• Neonicotinoids are long-lasting, systemic pesticides that move through soil and water, and are taken up in a plant’s vascular system. These insecticides are everywhere, accumulating, and genetically bees are especially sensitive to their neurotoxic effects.
• Bees are a keystone, indicator species. Their decline points to, and will likely precipitate, broader ecosystem degradation.
In other words, we know enough and we’d better act quickly if we want to save this $15+ billion a year industry on which so much rides.
We know enough to act» Join us as we work with beekeepers and partners from around the country to push for decisive, precautionary action on a timeline that matters.
There is a sign-on letter at http://action.panna.org/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=6547
-=-=-=-=-=-
4/7/11. Pesticide Action Network has added
bee toxicity to its ratings of pesticide residues on food – check it out at http://www.whatsonmyfood.org/
Jim
-=-=-=-=-=-
The NY Times ran a front page story today (Oct. 7th) headlined "With Scientists, Soldiers Solve a Bee Mystery." "Solved" is too strong a word here. What the study showed is that samples of dead bees taken from hives suffering colony collapse from various parts of the country and in different years had evidence of infection with both a specific virus and a specific fungus, suggesting that it is the combination of the two which is lethal. This combination was not found in a healthy bee colony used as a control group.
Innoculation of bees with the pathogens was highly lethal. The study was done in the lab so it isn't known whether the most intriguing aspect of colony collapse disorder, that dying bees emerge from the hives and fly away leaving relatively empty hives, would occur if this were done in hives rather than on individual bees. Thus at present we only know that the pathogen inoculation part of this experiment killed individual bees but we don't know if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm
ow if it can replicate the specific signs of colony collapse disorder.
The scientific report, published in PLoS One, is important but it concedes that, "our limited results do not completely fulfill the requirements of risk characterization, nor do they clearly define whether the occurrence of IIV and N. ceranae in CCD colonies is a marker, a cause, or a consequence of CCD." The study is available online at
http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0013181These articles reveals the connection between the scientist written about in the NYT story and Bayer, the manufacturer of neonics, which are linked with CCD ...
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10 $15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://money.cnn.com/2010/10/08/news/honey_bees_ny_times.fortune/index.htm