Extension
Date of this Version
2000
Citation
University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension EC 00-1564-S
Abstract
Why Bumble Bees Are Important
Capturing Bumble Bees
Making a Reference Collection
The Bee Family Tree
The Bumble Bee Family Tree
Bumble Bee Mimics
How to Use the Identification Guide
Bee Identification Guide
Checklist of Nebraska Species
External Morphology of Bumble Bees
Glossary
Additional Resources
About Bumble Boosters
Data Sheet for Collection Specimens
For most people, pollen means allergies and bees mean stings. However, you should thank a bee, butterfly, bat, bird, or other pollinator for one out of every three bites of food you eat. Pollination is the transfer of pollen from one flower to another. It is a critical step in fruit and seed production. Some plants produce generous quantities of pollen and rely on the wind to transfer pollen. Many plant species, however, produce smaller amounts of pollen and have elaborate mechanisms to attract pollinators. There are 95 crops grown in the United States that require insect pollinators. In addition, many bee-pollinated plants provide food for wildlife, increase soil fertility, and beautify our landscapes. In an era when human activities have reduced nesting habitat and forage plants, we need to consider the impact we have on plant/pollinator relationships. Pollinators are a critical link in the ecosystems of both wild and agricultural lands and play an important role in the interconnectedness of life in general. Bumble bees are a great place to begin. They are beautiful native insects whose distribution and abundance can be nurtured by providing suitable nesting habitat and forage plants.
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© Copyright by the University of Nebraska, 2000