Two different pollinator species Apis mellifera and Bombus terrestris as indicators of heavy metal pollution near the mining complex in Bor, Serbia

Abstract

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) and bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) are pollinators that cover large areas during their foraging activities. As a result, they encounter various environments and pollutants, making them an ideal choice as bioindicators for environmental pollution. The town of Bor in eastern Serbia houses the largest mine for copper, gold, and silver extraction, and is crucial to regularly monitor the environmental impact of mining activities. The presence and concentration of heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, Li, Pb, Au, Ni) were measured using the ICP OES method for samples of both species at six locations in the basin of the Bor mining facility and one in the remote region. Results indicate that both species accumulate heavy metals in their bodies during foraging activities in similar manner. Elevated concentrations of Fe, Zn, Cd and Pb were detected in both species in the same localities while Cu, Li and Ni were variable depending on the locality. Interestingly the Cu concentration in A. mellifera was less variable than in B. terrestris indicating different accumulation pattern, possibly species specific. Both pollinator species serve as potential bioindicators for environmental pollution in the area, reflecting ecosystem health and heavy metal infiltration in the food chain.