Effect of thiamethoxam on foraging activity and mortality of Apis mellifera (L.)

Thiamethoxam, a neonicotinoid commonly used for its high selective toxicity to insects, is one of the most commonly used pesticides. However, its effect on beneficial insects such as the honeybee Apis mellifera L is still controversial. As young adult workersperform out-hive duties that are crucial for colonydevelopment and survival, the effect of sublethal doses of thiamethoxam on honeybee foraging activity and mortality was assessed. Thiamethoxam had a negative impact on foraging activity and cause mortality of honey bees for a period of three to four days following the spraying in field condition.