Managing the activity of pollinators in protected cropping systems (MAPP-CS)

Soft fruit production under fixed protective structures is highly dependent on introduced bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) for pollination. Their performance under such structures can be less reliable as they can be less active, suffer from higher mortality and sometimes fail to return to the hive, resulting in lower fruit yields and quality.

This project will research the drivers of pollinator underperformance in enclosed systems, including lighting and navigational factors, and trial a range of affordable interventions to improve pollinator activity, reduce mortality and improve profitability.

Funder: Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council

Industry partners: Agriculture Investments Ltd, Biobest Ltd, Buzzup, Clockhouse Farm and The East Malling Trust

Term: May 2024 to April 2028