Findings from a new study by the Countryside Survey Partnership show that a range of changes to small scraps of 'semi-natural' land could be a factor in the decline of pollinating insects such as bees.
Their study shows that the number of wild plant species in patches of semi-natural habitat decreased between 1990 and 2007. The analysis suggests that the decline of this crucial source of nectar was partly because varieties were 'crowded out' by more vigorous species.
CSP scientists believe the overgrowth on these small but highly significant bits of land could be related to reduced management and air pollution, where the deposition of nitrogenous compounds from the air acts like a fertilizer.
Their in-depth study of habitat, soils and landscape features was carried out using specially-developed electronic recording tools. Many of the same sites have been monitored for each survey since 1978.
Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman said: “Pollinating insects are vital to our existence, helping to provide the food on our tables. It is important that we investigate the causes of the decline and take action to address it. The UK has some of the best environmental scientists in the world and using their skills we are gathering more information on changes to our land and the effects this has on species and habitats.”
NFU senior countryside adviser Dr Andrea Graham said: “This new study presents some interesting findings. Such research is improving our fundamental understanding of the challenges facing our insect pollinators and, as such, contributes to the puzzle of understanding and tackling declining pollinator populations.
“The change in the nature of such habitats is thought to be due to reduced management and air pollution. The complexity of the problem is highlighted by the fact the reduced management, which has had a possible negative impact on pollinators, is also shown to have had a positive impact on other parts of the ecosystem, such as improving freshwater quality.
“The NFU will continue to champion the Campaign for the Farmed Environment which seeks to encourage the creation and management of key habitats on farm. One of the key themes is farmed wildlife and the pollen and nectar mixes being promoted through the Campaign are an important way to benefit pollinators alongside productive agriculture.”
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