cross-posted from: https://lemmy.zip/post/61520306
Using CRISPR-Cas9, scientists engineered a yeast to produce the nutrient feed. Farmers could have it in two years.
”Co-author Professor Phil Stevenson (RBG Kew and Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich) added: “Honey bees are critically important pollinators for the production of crops such as almonds, apples, and cherries and so are present in some crop locations in very large numbers, which can put pressure on limited wildflowers. Our engineered supplement could therefore benefit wild bee species by reducing competition for limited pollen supplies.”
So more honeybees reduce competition for limited pollen supply?
There is X amount of natural pollen. A amount is consumed by domesticated bees, and B amount by wild bees. If domesticated bees can be provided with synthetic pollen, now there is B+A amount of natural pollen available for wild bees.
It’s trickle-down beeconomics!
you’d think there’d be more to share but no you just end up with
BEES WITH FAT ASSES [content warning BEES WITH FAT ASSES]
Underrated comment ^^
I see this as less of a way to overload populations but rather another tool to help struggling colonies.
That said, there’s nothing there not saying that this won’t be abused in some cases.
That said, there’s nothing there not saying that this won’t be abused in some cases.
A rare triple negative!
ladies and gentleman, we got him
There are other pollinators that might feel the pressure if human made colonies grow in numbers. Those pollinators will not get the booster nor it seems that humans are particularly interested in root causes of pollen not being nutritions enough any longer.
