Pollution disrupts nighttime pollination by degrading scents. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38330106/)

These scientists wanted to understand how a certain type of pollutant called nitrate radicals affects insects that come out at night. These insects, like moths and beetles, use special signals or cues to find flowers and get nectar from them. The scientists wanted to know if the nitrate radicals were causing any problems for these insects.

To find out, the scientists set up an experiment. They created a special environment for the insects that was just like being outside at night. They made sure the temperature and humidity were right, and they even put some flowers in the environment to attract the insects.

Then, the scientists introduced the nitrate radicals into the environment. They wanted to see how the insects would react to these pollutants. They observed the insects closely and noticed that when the nitrate radicals were present, the insects had a harder time finding the flowers and getting the nectar.

This told the scientists that the nitrate radicals were actually breaking down the signals or cues that the insects use to find nectar. It's like the insects were getting confused because the signals were not working properly anymore.

This study is important because it helps us understand how pollution can affect insects and their ability to find food. If we know how pollution affects them, we can find ways to protect these insects and make sure they can still find the flowers they need to survive.

Pennisi E. Pollution disrupts nighttime pollination by degrading scents. Science. 2024 Feb 9;383(6683):578. doi: 10.1126/science.ado5312. Epub 2024 Feb 8.