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New research article published in the Journal of Hymenoptera Research

Title: Long-term changes in the composition and distribution of the Hungarian bumble bee fauna (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Bombus)

Authors: Dóra Arnóczkyné Jakab, Miklós Tóth, István Szarukán, Szabolcs Szanyi, Zsolt Józan, Miklós Sárospataki, Antal Nagy

Abstract
One of the most important pollinator taxa is Bombus (Hymenoptera, Apidae), the genus of bumble bees,since they are important, often specialized, pollinators of many plants. As a result of climate change,warming winters and changes in landscape structure, the distribution and frequency of Bombus speciesis constantly changing. To develop appropriate protection strategies, it is essential to monitor them andupdate the occurrence and threat status of the species.
The last review of the distribution of Bombus species in Hungary was completed 20 years ago. Here we present updated distribution maps based on published data from the last 20 years together with un-published data collected in 2018–2021. Based on the new data, we examine changes in the last two decades. In the case of 9 species further studies should be carried out to confirm the presence of stable populations, while 3 species are recommended for protection by law in Hungary. Seven species showed increasing frequency, B. argillaceus and B. haematurus.

Miklós Sárospataki was supported by the SAFEGUARD project funded by Horizon 2020 (Grant Agreement No. 101003476).

Read the full research article HERE