Selection and importation of new pollinators to New Zealand

Abstract

The geographic isolation of New Zealand greatly limits the numbers and diversity of species of native bees compared to other areas of comparable size. The honey bee was introduced for honey production, but it provides adequate pollination for most of the introduced flowering crops that require insect pollination for fruit and seed production. The shortage of indigenous pollinators led to the importation of long-tongued bumble bees for pollination of red clover. This was the first introduction anywhere of bees especially for pollination. Following this success, 2 species of bees were introduced to pollinate lucerne. The importation of further specialist pollinators for selected crops could improve yields and quality. Criteria for selection of additional pollinators are suggested, which include minimizing disturbances to the existing flora and fauna, and the safeguarding of current crop yields. Had these criteria been in force last century, honey bees may have been excluded, but bumble bees probably would have been introduced. As an example of a candidate specialist pollinator, Osmia cornifrons is suggested for fruit flowers. This bee species appears to comply with all criteria. New Zealand is uniquely placed to benefit more than most other areas from the introduction of selected, specialist pollinating bees.