Crop pollination services

Abstract

This chapter presents the first quantitative models that predict pollinator abundance on a landscape and uses them to determine pollinator ecosystem service value for crop pollination. Using information on pollinator nesting resources, floral resources, and foraging distances, the simple tier 1 models predict the relative abundance of pollinators within nesting habitats. From these nesting areas, they then predict relative abundances of pollinators on surrounding farms requiring pollination services. The framework is then used to attribute the pollinator-dependent gains in yield and crop value to the parcels supplying the pollinators. The more complex tier 2 models add the ability to consider multiple pollinator species or guilds, multiple nesting types per habitat, and seasonal variation in foraging preferences. The approach here fills an important gap by providing quantitative and mechanistic models from which to evaluate policy decisions and develop land-use plans that promote pollination conservation and ecosystem service delivery.