Ingestion of polystyrene microparticles impairs survival and defecation in larvae of Polistes satan (Hymenoptera: Vespidae).

Microplastics (MPs) are widespread pollutants of emerging concern, and the risks associated with their ingestion have been reported in many organisms. Terrestrial environments can be contaminated with MPs, and terrestrial organisms, including arthropods, are predisposed to the risk of ingesting MPs. In the current study, the larvae of the paper wasp Polistes satan were fed two different doses (6 mg or 16 mg at once) of polystyrene MPs (1.

Chronic exposure to a common biopesticide is detrimental to individuals and colonies of the paper wasp Polistes versicolor.

Risk assessments of agrochemicals on non-target insects are biased in studies with surrogate groups, such as pollinators. In social insects, such investigations are generally restricted to lethal tests with adults maintained individually, simulating a non-realistic scenario. Here, we performed a holistic approach to resemble a chronic field exposure of Polistes versicolor (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) to a common biopesticide.

Toxicological assessments of agrochemical effects on stingless bees (Apidae, Meliponini).

Bee pollination is crucial for ecosystem maintenance and crop production. The ubiquity of bee pollinators in agricultural landscapes frequently results in their exposure to agrochemicals, which has been associated with their decline. Stingless bees are wild pollinators restricted to the Pantropical region, and like honey bees, are suffering colony losses.

Imidacloprid-induced impairment of mushroom bodies and behavior of the native stingless bee Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides.

Declines in pollinator colonies represent a worldwide concern. The widespread use of agricultural pesticides is recognized as a potential cause of these declines. Previous studies have examined the effects of neonicotinoid insecticides such as imidacloprid on pollinator colonies, but these investigations have mainly focused on adult honey bees.