A lack of knowledge is one of the biggest hurdles for efficient protection efforts, a renowned entomologist has claimed.
Dr Michael Orr from the State Museum of National History in Stuttgart was involved in a study on pollinator biodiversity in Asia.
The German scientist emphasised the insects’ key role in ecosystems.
He explained: “Given the key roles native bees play, both ecologically and economically in a region like Asia, understanding how to manage and maintain bee diversity is crucial to sustainable development in the region.”
However, Dr Orr claimed many people did not know enough about these creatures.
He criticised: “The biggest impediment is a lack of knowledge about where and how species live and foundationally an inability to even identify different species.”
The researcher added: “While most studies of bees take place in high-income countries, they have all raised concerns and calls for more conservation or management solutions to curb or stop declines of bees and other pollinators.”
There are more than 20,000 known species of bees in the world. Each type has its own behaviour and preferred habitats. All of them are of great importance when it comes to ensuring balanced ecosystems.
