Invasive American small hive beetle destroys 800 honey bee colonies in Karnataka plains
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Animal husbandry, fisheries & allied· Prelims·
Invasive species and their impact on pollination services: a relevant GS3 Agriculture and Ecology case study.
Why in news
The Department of Horticulture and National Bee Board are being urged to address the destruction of 800 honey bee colonies in Karnataka plains by an invasive American small hive beetle.
Background
K.T. Vijayakumar of the University of Agricultural Sciences Bangalore (UAS-B) reported that an invasive small hive beetle from America destroyed 800 honey bee colonies in the Karnataka plains within 25 days. The infestation has significant implications for pollination services.
Facts for Prelims
- EnvironmentSmall hive beetle: An invasive species originating from America.
- PlaceKarnataka plains: Location of the reported honey bee colony destruction.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the honey bee colony destruction in Karnataka, consider the following statements:
- The infestation occurred in the coastal regions of Karnataka.
- The beetle destroyed 800 honey bee colonies within a period of 25 days.
- The infestation was caused by an invasive small hive beetle originating from America.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)3 only
- (b)1 and 3 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The infestation occurred in the Karnataka plains.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the ecological and economic implications of invasive species on India's agricultural biodiversity and suggest measures to mitigate their impact.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Pollination deficit: Risk to crop yields and biodiversity due to rapid honey bee colony depletion
- Biosecurity gaps: Need for stringent quarantine protocols to prevent the entry of invasive pests from America
Keywords: Invasive species · Pollination services · Biosecurity · Agricultural biodiversity · Ecological impact
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.