Environmental Sustainability
BUMBLEBEE POLLINATION IMPROVES SHELF-LIFE OF STRAWBERRY CROPS, RESEARCH FINDS.
Bumblebee pollination has been found to improve the shelf-life of strawberry crops, according to research. Along with boosting yields and improving fruit quality, the unique buzz pollination method used by bumblebees can increase the redness of strawberries, improve their firmness and reduce the sugar to acid ratio, resulting in longer-lasting fruits.
Bumblebee pollination has been found to have significant benefits for the shelf-life of strawberry crops, according to new research. While the yield and quality improvements associated with bumblebee pollination are well known, the pollinators’ unique buzzing technique has been found to have a positive impact on the shelf-life of strawberries.
Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/stripes-insects-macro-golden-57398/
The vibration of bees helps with fruit set, resulting in larger and more uniform strawberries. In addition, the research suggests that bumblebee pollination can improve the fruit’s texture and flavour, as well as increasing its redness and firmness.
The shelf-life of strawberries is primarily influenced by factors such as maturity, handling, and storage practices, but the research found that bumblebee pollination can have a positive impact on the fruit’s sugar to acid ratio.
The findings highlight the important role that bumblebees play in pollinating strawberry crops, delivering a higher yield and quality, as well as improving the fruit’s shelf-life.
Source: https://www.fruitnet.com, Photo: https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-shot-of-bees-on-a-flower-8549680