Pocket Guide to the Native Bees of New Mexico.

摘要

Honeybees and wild native bees pollinate approximately 75% of the fruits and vegetables grown in the US. In recent years, however, honeybee populations have declined in many parts of the world due to the phenomenon known as Colony Collapse Disorder. Research indicates that native bees can often fill the pollination gap when honeybees are scarce, and there is increasing interest in growing flowering plants to help sustain our native bees, honeybees, and other beneficial insects. New Mexico State University and the Natural Resources Conservation Services NM Plant Materials Center are collaborating in testing more than 200 species of (mostly native) plants for their survival, ease of cultivation, and ability to attract and sustain pollinators and other beneficial insects. This publication, funded by the Western Integrated Pest Management Center, is intended as an introductory guide to the main groups of native bees that you might expect to see visiting such plants. Information on techniques for enhancing bee habitat is also included.