Department
Biology
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Abstract
In recent years, biologists have documented numerous threats facing native bee populations globally. Current agricultural practices have significant and often negative effects on native bee populations. It is imperative that we understand how these practices affect native bees. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is cultivated heavily in western Kansas as a grain crop. There is some evidence that native bees can utilize sorghum pollen in other systems. This study investigates whether native bees utilize pollen from sorghum and whether the presence of sorghum in the landscape influences the structure of native bee communities. We conducted observations of sorghum while in bloom to identify bee activity. Additionally, we examined the generic richness and abundance of bees adjacent to fields growing sorghum and wheat using pan traps. Seven species belonging to three genera of bee (Apis sp., Augochlorella sp., and Lasioglossum spp.) were observed foraging on sorghum. Bee abundance was greater adjacent to sorghum fields as opposed to wheat. However, there was no significant difference in generic richness between sorghum and wheat. This study represents an important step in determining how bee species adapt to a heavily agriculturalized environment, which will inform further research, conservation efforts, and production practices.
Keywords
Insect Ecology, Entomology, Pollinators, Pan traps, Crop pollination
Advisor
Dr. Sarah Elzay
Date of Award
Spring 2025
Document Type
Thesis
Recommended Citation
Strack, Katelyn M., "Native Bee Utilization of Sorghum and Community Richness in Western Kansas Agricultural System" (2025). Master's Theses. 3261.
Available at:
https://scholars.fhsu.edu/theses/3261
Rights
© The Author
