Changes in hypopharyngeal glands of nurse bees (Apis mellifera) induced by pollen-containing sublethal doses of the herbicide Roundup.

Decreasing pollinator populations worldwide has generated great concern and stimulated countless studies to understand the origin of colony losses. One main cause is the indiscriminate use of different pesticides, producing subtle negative effects on bee physiology and behavior. Royal jelly synthesized in the hypopharyngeal glands is an essential protein for feeding all individuals of the hive, especially the queen.