It’s a well-known fact that Apple trees require pollination in order to produce fruit. But what many may not know is that Australia is becoming increasingly reliant on a particular species of bee for this important task. A recent study published in the journal Nature Communications has revealed that the European honey bee (Apis mellifera) is now the primary pollinator of Apple trees in Australia. This is a worrying development for the country’s agricultural industry, as the European honey bee is becoming increasingly vulnerable to disease and pests. As a result, the sustainability of Apple production in Australia is at risk if pollinating bees are not managed carefully. It is now more important than ever for Australian farmers to implement measures to protect and encourage the growth of the honey bee population.

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source: Phys.org