Plant probe could help estimate bee exposure to neonicotinoid insecticides

Bee populations are declining, and neonicotinoid pesticides continue to be investigated — and in some cases banned — because of their suspected role as a contributing factor. However, limitations in sampling and analytical techniques have prevented a full understanding of the connection. Now, researchers describe a new approach to sample neonicotinoids and other pesticides in plants, which could explain how bees are exposed to the substances.