Metals could challenge pollinator conservation in legacy cities

• Published in: Journal of insect conservation 2023-06, Vol.27 (3), p.361-375
• Main Authors: Scott, Sarah B., Sivakoff, Frances S., Meuti, Megan E., Gardiner, Mary M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animal Ecology; Bees; Biodiversity; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Butterflies & moths; Conservation; Conservation Biology/Ecology; Contamination; Entomology; Exposure; Immunology; Insects; Life Sciences; Metal concentrations; Metals; Pollinators; Review Paper; Urban environments
• ISSN: 1366-638X; 1572-9753
• DOI: 10.1007/s10841-023-00474-y

Metal contamination is a worldwide issue that is particularly present and ubiquitous in urban environments. Many pollinators, including species of bees, butterflies, and moths are found in heavily modified landscapes where they may be negatively affected by exposure to metal contamination. Increased efforts to convert vacant urban lands to habitat that benefits such communities necessitates a thorough understanding of the hazard and risks pollinators face in metal contaminated landscapes. This investigation revealed that bees and butterflies have complex species and population specific responses to metals. Exposure to these pollutants can have reproductive, immunological, behavioral, and developmental impacts. These include challenged reproductive efforts, longer developmental times, and elevated brood mortality for pollinators. Implications for insect conservation This review shows that pollinator conservation efforts are threatened if we fail to recognize the importance of metal exposure within contaminated landscapes. Bees and butterflies are exposed to metal concentrations in legacy cities that can cause reproductive, development, or behavioral impacts.