Workpackages of Subproject E10

Workpackage WP10.1

Influence of forest fragmentation on pollination interactions

Short description: Investigations of the pilot phase shall be continued, concentrating on particular tree species, and on gene flow and genetic variability among and within fragments. It also addresses the influence of edge effects on pollination success in closely related plant species. .

Workpackage WP10.2

Role of forest and other landscape elements as pollinator reservoirs

Short description: To be assessed by regularly monitoring pollinators (bees) along transects from the forest into the agricultural matrix. We expect diversity and abundance of bees to change with increasing distance from the forest. Studies must be combined with research on the bees´ ecological requirements to possibly improve pollination quality in the long run.

Workpackage WP10.3

Pollination of crops

Short description: We want to identify the diversity of pollinators of the cultivated crops and vegetables in the agricultural area adjacent to Kakamega Forest. A main part is to assess the role and the pollination efficiency of flower visitors, which can be achieved by straightforward pollination experiments. It shall be combined with some preliminary investigations on the role of managed honey bees or stingless bees for yield increase.

Workpackage WP10.4

Monetary value of crop pollinators

Short description: It shall translate pollination into a monetary value, thus helping to understand the importance of "invisible ecosystem services". It shall operate on the level of the individual household, the community level, and the regional or landscape level. Via GIS-analyses we will try to estimate the monetary pollination value for a whole region, generating a strong argument for pollinator conservation.

Workpackage WP10.5

Pollinator gardens

Short description: The aim is to develop and establish a "living" pollinator garden, that vividly demonstrates the importance of pollination for crops and wild plants, the diversity of pollinators, their requirements, etc. It has to be targeted at different groups (pupils, rural community, students, tourists). Once developed, the concept may easily be modified for different parts of the country.