Ollerton, J., Erenler, H. E., Edwards, M. and Crockett, R. G. M. (2014) Extinctions of aculeate pollinators in Britain and the role of large-scale agricultural changes. Science. 346(6215) 1095-9203.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Abstract: | Pollinators are fundamental to maintaining both biodiversity and agricultural productivity, but habitat destruction, loss of flower resources, and increased use of pesticides are causing declines in their abundance and diversity. Using historical records we assessed the rate of extinction of bee and flower-visiting wasp species in Britain, from the mid 19th century to the present. The most rapid phase of extinction appears to be related to changes in agricultural policy and practice beginning in the 1920s, before the agricultural intensification prompted by the Second World War, often cited as the most important driver of biodiversity loss in Britain. Slowing of the extinction rate from the 1960s onwards may be due to prior loss of the most sensitive species and/or effective conservation programs. |
| Creators: | Ollerton, Jeff, Erenler, Hilary E, Edwards, Mike and Crockett, Robin G M |
| Faculties, Divisions and Institutes: |
Faculties > Faculty of Arts, Science & Technology > Environmental Science Research Centres > Environment Research Group |
| Date: | 12 December 2014 |
| Date Type: | Publication |
| Journal or Publication Title: | Science |
| Volume: | 346 |
| Number: | 6215 |
| Language: | English |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1257259 |
| ISSN: | 1095-9203 |
| Status: | Published / Disseminated |
| Refereed: | Yes |
| URI: | http://nectar.northampton.ac.uk/id/eprint/10721 |
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