Here we demonstrate for the frst time that field-realistic concentrations of the commonly used neonicotinoid insecticide thiacloprid can severely affect the immunocompetence of Osmia bicornis. In detail, males exposed to thiacloprid solutions of 200 and 555µg/kg showed a reduction in hemocyte density. Moreover, functional aspects of the immune defence – the antimicrobial activity of the hemolymph – were impaired in males. In females, however, only a concentration of 555µg/kg elicited similar immunosuppressive efects. Our results demonstrate that neonicotinoid insecticides can negatively affect the immunocompetence of O. bicornis, possibly leading to an impaired disease resistance capacity.
Source:
Annely Brandt et al. Scientific Reports (Nature Publisher Group); London Vol. 10, Iss. 1, (2020). DOI:10.1038/s41598-020-61445-w
Geef een reactie