Effects of Pesticide Exposure on Pollinator Health and Behavior in Indonesia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the effects of pesticide exposure on pollinator health and behavior in Indonesia. Materials and Methods: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study found that various pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids, adversely affect the neurological functioning of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. These chemicals can impair cognitive functions, leading to disorientation and reduced ability to forage efficiently. Moreover, exposure to pesticides has been linked to weakened immune systems, making pollinators more susceptible to diseases and parasites. Sublethal doses of pesticides can disrupt the complex social behaviors of bees, affecting colony dynamics, communication, and reproductive success. Chronic exposure often results in diminished populations due to increased mortality rates and decreased fertility. The cascading effects of these health impairments not only threaten pollinator populations but also jeopardize the broader ecosystem services they provide, including pollination of crops and wild plants, which are critical for biodiversity and food security. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Ecotoxicology theory, optimal foraging theory and stress theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing effects of pesticide exposure on pollinator health and behavior in Indonesia. Implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies that minimize pesticide use and promote biological control methods can significantly reduce pollinator exposure to harmful substances. Enhancing regulatory frameworks to incorporate stringent pollinator safety assessments in pesticide approval and usage processes is essential.