ISSN 2360-7971
Abstract
Accepted 9th May, 2016
Pollination is the process through which pollen is transferred to the female reproductive organs of the plants thereby enabling fertilization and reproduction. Pollinators play efficient role in pollination of wild plants and several crop species. Seventy-five percent (75%) of the crops grown for human consumption rely on pollinators, predominantly bees, for a successful harvest. However, over the last decade, both native and honey bee populations have been declining at alarming rates, raising concerns about the impact on crop pollination and global food security. To complicate the situation, many of the factors linked to bee population decline are the direct result of commonly adapted agricultural practices. Fortunately, one of the simplest ways to conserve pollinators’ population in an agriculturally reliant world is through organic farming. There are several studies citing the beneficial aspects of organic farming in this regard. In view of the important role of pollinators in global food security, it is necessary to conduct a critical study on the aspects directly related to the protection of health of pollinators.
Keywords: Bee pollination, organic farming, conventional farming, pollinator health.