A research study by the School of Higher Agricultural Studies at the University of São Paulo found that bees can act as bioindicators of air pollution and air quality. Worker bees make exploratory flights around their hives to collect water, nectar and pollen from flowers, with which they produce honey, royal jelly, wax and propolis.

Through an analysis of the matter collected on these expeditions, the study revealed that in a contaminated environment, pollen becomes impregnated with any microorganisms and chemical substances that are present.

“The results can serve to warn beekeepers about the areas where their apiaries are established. In addition to pollen, apicultural products can also be used to monitor pollution and prevent its impacts, since the contaminating particulates are transmitted to these products,” biologist and head researcher Talita Antonia da Silveira told Tierramérica.