Pollination Challenges in Almond Production

Gordon Wardell, a biologist, faces challenges in finding honeybees for almond pollination. He explores using blue Orchard bees, which are more efficient pollinators. These bees require a specific development cycle, including a winter diapause. The use of blue Orchard bees is still experimental but promising, as they visit significantly more flowers than honeybees.

What is the main challenge Gordon Wardell faces in his work with almond production?

• Controlling pests

• Managing water resources

• Growing almond trees

• Finding enough honeybees for pollination

What is the primary focus of Gordon Wardell's experimental work?

• Developing new almond varieties

• Using blue Orchard bees for pollination

• Improving soil quality

• Enhancing honeybee populations

What specific condition do blue Orchard bees require before they can be used for pollination?

• 150 days of winter diapause

• A warm summer

• A large population of honeybees

• A specific type of flower

How does the pollination efficiency of blue Orchard bees compare to that of honeybees?

• They do not visit flowers

• They visit fewer flowers

• They visit 50 times as many flowers

• They visit the same number of flowers

What stage is the use of blue Orchard bees in agriculture currently in?

• Fully implemented

• Experimental

• Abandoned

• Commercialized

Why is the pollination service of blue Orchard bees considered necessary?

• They produce honey

• They are easier to manage

• There is a shortage of honeybees

• They are cheaper than honeybees