bestuivers

Bestuivers (pollinators) are organisms that move pollen from the male to the female parts of flowering plants, enabling fertilization and the production of seeds and fruit. They include a range of animals, most notably insects such as bees, butterflies, moths, flies and beetles, but also birds and bats in some regions. While abiotic agents like wind and water can also transfer pollen, biotic pollination by animals is often more efficient for many crops and wild plants.

Pollination involves interactions between flowers and their visitors. Flowers often evolve traits to attract specific pollinators, including scent, color, nectar, and floral shape. Visitation does not always result in successful pollination; effective pollen transfer depends on the behavior and morphology of the pollinator and the reproductive biology of the plant.

Importance: Pollination supports the reproduction of a large portion of flowering plants and is a key ecosystem service. It underpins biodiversity and food production; many fruits, seeds and nuts, including apples, citrus, berries, almonds, and tomatoes, rely on pollinators to varying degrees.

Threats: Many pollinator groups face pressures from habitat loss, pesticide exposure, diseases and parasites (such as Varroa in honeybees), climate change, and competition with invasive species. Fragmented landscapes reduce floral resources and nesting sites.

Conservation and management: Practices that maintain diverse floral landscapes, such as hedgerows, wildflower strips, flowering cover crops, and reduced pesticide use, help support bestuivers. Providing nesting habitats for wild bees and protecting bee health are also important.

Research and policy aim to quantify pollination services and protect pollinator populations. See also: Pollination; Ecosystem services.