Combatting the pollinator crisis with genomic biology

摘要

In our struggle to achieve sustainable food production, humankind has enjoyed the benefits of a silent cadre of allies that, in the past, has been taken for granted. Modern agriculture relies on the pollinating activities of diverse animal species including bees, flies, wasps, butterflies, moths, bats, and many others. Pollinators, especially bees, play a crucial role in the production of three quarters of our major global food crops, including the vegetables, fruits, and nuts that provide the majority of our vitamins, minerals, plant-based fats, and micronutrients.