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> recently begun spraying The neonics in question are typically applied as a seed treatment, not sprayed. Unless the bees are burrowing into the ground to reac
by randomdata 12y ago
> recently begun spraying
The neonics in question are typically applied as a seed treatment, not sprayed. Unless the bees are burrowing into the ground to reach the treated seed, they theoretically should have no exposure at all. The thought is that particulates may still spread through pneumatic planter dust-off, and here in Canada, at least, rules have been implemented to address that.
- Brakenshire 12y agoI assumed the neonicotinoid concentrates in the pollen? Surely that it the mechanism by which a comparitively small amount applied to the seed can have a meaningful effect as an insecticide, are you suggesting it only had an effect on insects in the soil?
- nitrogen 12y agoPlants can often fend for themselves once they are big enough, but the seeds have to be protected until then.
- Brakenshire 12y agoAh, I see.
- randomdata 12y ago> are you suggesting it only had an effect on insects in the soil? That is the design, so theoretically, yes. Of course, as I'm sure everyone reading HN knows, even the best engineered plans can have unforeseen problems. The research I am familiar with indicates the treatment does not make it to the pollen, which means, if the bees are being exposed, it is most likely through some other mechanism. That is why the planting machinery is the prime suspect, and the early results from the aforementioned rule changes here in Canada do look promising, although it is probably too soon to reach any formal conclusions.