D3240: Examining sterol nutritional physiology in Apis mellifera and Bombus impatiens

Phytosterols are an essential micronutrient in bee diets. Bees rely on pollen as their primary source of phytosterols, but literature shows very little about the uptake up phytosterols in various bee species. This study aimed to understand the differences in survival and phytosterol uptake in bumble bees and honey bees fed diets with and without pollen in a cage study. Using targeted lipidomics, we measured phytosterol levels and collected daily mortality and consumption data from laboratory cages. Results showed consistent phytosterol concentrations in bumble bees, while honey bee data varied throughout the study. These findings indicate differences in sterol metabolism and dietary preferences between species. Understanding the nutritional physiology of bees is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. Further research is needed to understand the implications of sterol metabolism on foraging behavior and bee health.