Cooperative Ecosystem Studies Unit, Chesapeak Watershed CESU

archived

national-level science problem with novel methods. The expertise and contributions of external technology partners is required for this scientific pursuit which is aligning USGS interests with recently recognized national priorities with regard to pollination, thus representing a significant opportunity for growth. The application of innovative tools is needed for addressing this important issue of the detection of sublethal changes in animals and pollinators to the increasingly available pesticide class which is the fastest growing class globally (Gibbons et al., 2014). This proof-of-concept project will demonstrate effectiveness of a sustained-release chemical delivery device, as evidenced by measuring sub-lethal biomarker responses at the cell and molecular level. These data help to shed light on individual animal condition, whereby ecosystem health is reflected by the health of its animals.

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