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Research finds insecticide danger
Imidacloprid causes impact to bee genes, say scientists

A study has revealed that the genes of honeybees are affected by exposure to neonicotinoid insecticides.

Researchers were able to identify that just two parts per billion of the insecticide imidacloprid was strong enough to impact on the activity of honeybee genes.

The findings follow the European Commission's decision to temporarily ban the use of three neonicotinoids back in April 2013, due to concerns they could be linked to bee deaths.

Dr Reinhard Stöger, an associate professor in epigenetic at the University of Nottingham's School of Biosciences, led the study.

He said: "Although larvae can still grow and develop in the presence of imidacloprid, the stability of the developmental process appears to be compromised."

Dr Stöger also added that, should the bees be exposed to additional stresses, such as pests, disease and bad weather, it is likely to increase the rate of developmental failure.

The results support the European Food Safety Authority's (EFSA) January 2013 report, which deemed imidacloprid an "unacceptable" danger to bees.

Transient Exposure to Low Levels of Insecticide Affects Metabolic Networks of Honeybee Larvae has been published in the Public Library Of Science (PLOS) ONE journal.

The study was funded by the Co-operative Group under its Plan Bee campaign.

Related News

EU takes steps to protect bees
Insecticide danger to bees addressed

 

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.