Question

A farmer noticed that his apple trees were not bearing as much fruits as expected, despite having plenty of flowers. He observed that the bee population in his orchard had decreased significantly this season due to recent pesticide usage. Which type of pollination is likely being affected in this case, and what could be a possible solution?

• A. Wind pollination - Reducing pesticide use will allow wind to effectively pollinate the flowers.
• B. Water pollination - Increasing irrigation will help water carry pollen between flowers.
• C. Insect pollination - Reducing pesticide use and introducing bee hives could improve fruit production.
• D. None of the above.

Hint:

Apiculture (bee-keeping) is often practiced in orchards not just for honey, but to maximize crop yield through enhanced pollination.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Many fruit-bearing trees, including apples, are entomophilous, meaning they require biotic agents (insects) for pollination.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Bees are the primary pollinators for apple orchards.
A decrease in the bee population due to pesticides prevents the transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma, leading to a failure in fertilization and subsequent fruit development.
The logical solution is to stop using harmful pesticides and restore the pollinator population by placing bee hives (apiculture) in the orchard during the flowering season.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Insect pollination is the affected process, and the remedy is reducing pesticide use and introducing hives.