Selection matrix for Brazilian bee species to risk assessment of pesticides

Abstract

Many countries are using honeybee (Apis mellifera) as a surrogate to evaluate the risk of pesticides to all bee species. However, there is uncertainty regarding the extent honey bees can be used as surrogates for non-Apis species in pesticides risk assessment. A selection matrix for Brazilian bee species was built to support the selection process. To be considered as a candidate representative species in the Brazilian agricultural scenario a bee should have a wide geographic distribution, and be recorded in at least 4 agricultural crops. The selection matrix provides a foundation to elect meliponines (stingless bees) as a priority group. Therefore, in the near future lbama intends to assess the need for changes in the risk assessment procedure for bees, eventually including a stingless bee as a representative species.