Role of pollen beetles (Carpophilus aterrimus: Nitidulidae) in cotton pollination and their interaction with honeybees (Apis mellifera: Apidae)
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is an important global crop, and its productivity is significantly influenced by insect-mediated pollination. While honeybees (Apis mellifera) are widely recognized as effective pollinators of cotton, other insect visitors such as pollen beetles (Carpophilus aterrimus) frequently occur in cotton fields but their role in pollination remains poorly understood. Aim: This study investigated the role of C. aterrimus in cotton pollination and examined how its presence affects honeybee foraging behavior. Understanding these interactions under Australian field conditions would provide valuable insights for optimizing integrated pest and pollinator management strategies in cotton agroecosystems. Methods: Experiments were conducted in Narrabri, Australia, using a combination of caging and flower bagging trials. To assess the impact of beetle presence on honeybee visitation, periodic observations were carried out throughout the peak cotton flowering period. Results: Carpophilus aterrimus did not enhance cotton yield and high beetle densities negatively affected boll set and deterred honeybee visitation. Conclusion: Carpophilus aterrimus is not an effective pollinator and may reduce cotton productivity.
Source: Open Veterinary Journal
Institutions: University of Tripoli, Western Sydney University
Language: English
Topic: Plant and animal studies
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $350
OpenAlex ID: W4415743124
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