Toxicity of Fungicides and an Acaricide to Honey Bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) and their Effects on Bee Foraging Behavior and Pollen Viability on Blooming Apples and Pears

Abstract

Fungicides triforine, triflumizole, and DuPont 6573, and the acaricide hexythiazox were tested for honey bee toxicity and effect on bee foraging and pollen viability in blooming apple and pear. None of the materials was toxic to honey bees or reduced bloom visitation. Only a high rate of hexythiazox significantly reduced apple pollen germination. Pear pollen germination was significantly reduced by triforine, hexythiazox, and triflumizole. Ramifications to fruit set are discussed.