GM rape: Pollen, bees and species diversity

When the rape flowers in the spring, the fields come alive. The yellow rape flowers are a rich source of nectar and pollen for countless insects. If in future genetically modified herbicide‑resistant rape is planted, it will be the insects that contribute the most to the dispersal of the oilseed rape pollen. A realistic research project investigated whether the cultivation of GM rape could lead to lower species diversity among the pollinating insects. Researchers also investigated whether there are consequences for the bees if the pollen they collect comes from GM rape.

Results

• Safety research results summary:
  Bees and GM rape

• Interview with Stefan Kühne: "We were surprised by the large number of wild bee species."

Sience live

• Frequent flyers under surveillance. On the laziness of bees, collecting rape pollen and exploring the microcosm of the bee intestine.

• Oilseed rape, pollen and bees. Research photos

   

   

   

Pollen from GM rape: What happens in the bee intestine?

Bees feed on pollen and nectar. When collecting pollen, they do not differentiate between genetically modified and conventional plants. If bees ate pollen from GM oilseed rape, would it have an impact? Might the new genes inserted into the rape be transferred to micro-organisms in the bee intestine? A research project investigated the question.

Results

• Safety research results summary:
  Bees and GM rape