Oxidative Stress in two pollinators from Different Landscapes based on different pesticide residue profiles

Oxidative stress (OX) is a state of imbalance between antioxidants and reactive oxygen species, which are the byproducts of oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria. Different landscapes: conventional, organic, and roadside use different pesticides and pest control management practices pest control. The roadside landscape is a control for minimum application of herbicides and management. Two important pollinators, honey bees (Apis mellifera) and small carpenter bees (Ceratina calcarata) are studied here for their abiotic stress from different landscape. It is unknown whether the differences in these landscapes affect the oxidative stress of these two pollinators. Conventional farms offer the most exposure to pesticides, which have been related to increased stress levels. We hypothesized that honey bees and small carpenter bees (SCB) from conventional farms would experience the highest levels of OX. Results from the lipid assay indicated that honey bees and SCB of organic and roadside landscapes experienced the lowest and highest OX levels. The results of the protein carbonyl assay indicated a significant difference found between conventional and organic bees (p < 0.05), based on Tukeys post-hoc test. Previous research has shown that feral bees have a tolerance to high stress levels. The same could be true of honey bees and SCB from roadside landscapes, where the conditions imitate natural habitats. Organic farms use naturally derived pesticides and moderate management practices, likely contributing to their lower levels. Examining how these pollinators are affected by different farm landscapes can reveal the benefits and detriments of their corresponding management practices. This will lead to streamlined practices that are healthier for pollinators.