Bee pasture as a buffer against flower-mediated disease transmission

Bees play a crucial role as pollinators in ecosystems, yet they face the risk of flower-mediated diseases that can spread among their communities. Infected bees can inadvertently transmit infective agents, such as microbial spores, to other bee colonies through shared floral resources during foraging. To address this challenge, we propose a solution involving the strategic planting of bee pasture as buffer zones around foraging areas, coupled with the careful placement of beehives to segregate bee colonies. However, this strategy presents dual potential outcomes: the buffer zone could act as a protective barrier, reducing disease transmission; or attract more bees from other colonies, thereby increasing infection risk. Employing mathematical modeling, we explore the intricate dynamics of this strategy to minimize negative outcomes, considering factors such as colony strength, optimal foraging behavior, and foraging area locations. Our results recommend implementing the following measures to safeguard the target bee colony against disease: (i) ensuring ample food sources are available in the vicinity of the target bee colony, and (ii) establishing bee pasture in a distinct, outlying area to serve as a buffer zone. While the bee pasture buffer zone cannot guarantee complete immunity from infection, it can effectively delay the spread of inter-colony diseases. This proposed strategy should be combined with other sound beekeeping practices for comprehensive disease management. Our analysis aims to provide insights into optimizing practices to protect the health of both managed and wild bee populations, and bolster ecological resilience.

Significance Statement

Bees, vital pollinators in ecosystems, face the risk of flower-mediated diseases transmitted between colonies. Flower-mediated disease transmission occurs when bees spread pathogens to each other through sharing of flowers during foraging. To mitigate this, we propose planting bee pasture buffer zones around foraging areas. Using mathematical modeling, we recommend ensuring nearby food sources for the target bee colony and establishing bee pasture buffers. While not guaranteeing immunity, this strategy can delay disease spread. Combining this with other beekeeping practices can comprehensively manage diseases. This research underscores the importance of bee pasture areas for protecting both managed and wild bee populations and strengthening ecosystem resilience.

MSC Classification

92-10, 92D40, 92D30