ABSTRACT
This chapter discribes the importance of pollination and the functions of insect pollinators. Pollination is among the most visible and important ecosystem services provided by insects. Pollination services have become an essential industry, largely dependent on managed honey bees, Apis mellifera. Nectar or pollen rewards must be sufficient to compensate the pollinator for the foraging effort. Larger nectar rewards are necessary to attract bees during cooler periods, when bees have higher energy demands, compared to warmer periods. Pollinator choices among floral resources that vary in nutritional quality affect plant reproduction, therefore fitness and persistence. Pollinator-facilitated reproduction is a key factor maintaining populations of short-lived or sparsely distributed plant species. Conservation or restoration of native habitats and associated floral resources within agricultural landscapes can provide more consistent floral resources, thereby increasing pollinator diversity and pollinator efficiency. Pollination is one of the most visible insect contributions to ecosystem services and one that has established economic value.
