Affects of Neonicotinoids on Honey Bees
There are many different forms of bees and each one has its own set of side effects from neonicotinoids. Sub-lethal quantities of neonicotinoids can result in honey bees having issues with flight, navigation, taste and learning of new tasks. This in turn causes an impact on their foraging activity. Larvae that have been exposed to these chemicals experience reduced pupation rates. As adults, these exposed larvae can suffer an altered metabolism and reduced olfactory response. Also, the talc that is used to apply the chemicals is toxic to honey bees upon contact. As the plant metabolises the neonicotinoids, a chemical more toxic to honey bees than neonicotinoids can be produced.