Why Are Bees Important?

Bees are crucial to our world for several reasons, primarily due to their role as pollinators. The approximately 20,000 species of bees are the most important insect pollinators, contributing significantly to the reproduction of flowering plants and the formation of fruits and seeds. Without bees, many plants would struggle to reproduce, leading to a decline in plant biodiversity that would affect entire ecosystems and human agriculture.

In agricultural systems, bees play a crucial role in the pollination of numerous fruit and vegetable crops. Western honeybees, orchard bees, and countless wild bees are responsible for the pollination of about 90 crops in the United States alone, including almonds, apples, blueberries, and cucumbers. Pollination by bees can increase crop yields and improve the quality of produce. Without bees, the scale and cost of growing many fruits and vegetables would be drastically affected, leading to higher prices and reduced availability of these essential foods.

Beyond agriculture, bees are integral to maintaining healthy ecosystems. They facilitate the perpetuation of many of the trees, flowers, and other plants that serve as food and shelter for various wildlife. Bees are also themselves important food for other organisms in the food web. The decline of bee populations can lead to a ripple effect, impacting other species that rely directly or indirectly on bees and the plants they pollinate for survival. Bees are necessary to sustain biodiversity and the intricate web of life within ecosystems.