Elevated CO<sub>2</sub> Impacts on Plant–Pollinator Interactions: A Systematic Review and Free Air Carbon Enrichment Field Study

The impact of elevated CO<sub>2</sub> (eCO<sub>2</sub>) on plant–pollinator interactions is poorly understood. This study provides the first systematic review of this topic and identifies important knowledge gaps. In addition, we present field data assessing the impact of eCO...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Liam M. Crowley, Jonathan P. Sadler, Jeremy Pritchard, Scott A. L. Hayward
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2021-06-01
Series:Insects
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4450/12/6/512
Description
Summary:The impact of elevated CO<sub>2</sub> (eCO<sub>2</sub>) on plant–pollinator interactions is poorly understood. This study provides the first systematic review of this topic and identifies important knowledge gaps. In addition, we present field data assessing the impact of eCO<sub>2</sub> (150 ppm above ambient) on bluebell (<i>Hyacinthoides non-scripta</i>)–pollinator interactions within a mature, deciduous woodland system. Since 1956, only 71 primary papers have investigated eCO<sub>2</sub> effects on flowering time, floral traits and pollination, with a mere 3 studies measuring the impact on pollination interactions. Our field experiment documented flowering phenology, flower visitation and seed production, as well as the abundance and phenology of dominant insect pollinators. We show that first and mid-point flowering occurred 6 days earlier under eCO<sub>2</sub>, but with no change in flowering duration. Syrphid flies and bumble bees were the dominant flower visitors, with peak activity recorded during mid- and late-flowering periods. Whilst no significant difference was recorded in total visitation or seed set between eCO<sub>2</sub> and ambient treatments, there were clear patterns of earlier flowering under eCO<sub>2</sub> accompanied by lower pollinator activity during this period. This has implications for potential loss of synchrony in pollination systems under future climate scenarios, with associated long-term impacts on abundance and diversity.
ISSN:2075-4450