Comparisons were made between changes in median lifespan and experimental design variables, population, water use, pollen use, pollen substitute use.

Neonicotinoid pesticides (“neonics”) are nicotine-based insecticides that target the central nervous system of insect pests. They are systemic pesticides, meaning they are absorbed by the plant and contaminate all plant tissues

Neonicotinoid pesticides pose problems to the ecological health and safety of the EU. For this reason, under existing legislation, the Commission intends to apply the precautionary principle though legislative action.

The pressures on honeybee (Apis mellifera) populations, resulting from threats by modern pesticides, parasites, predators and diseases, have raised awareness of the economic importance and critical role this insect plays in agricultural societies across the globe.