Australian Orchids Suffer Rapid Pollination Decline Since the 1970s, Study Suggests

Pollination services have declined for Australian orchids by more than 60 per cent since the 1970s. A preliminary study has found several Australian orchid species have suffered a 60 per cent decline in pollen movement and fertilisation since 1925. The biggest drop in pollination started in the 1970s, with researchers suggesting rising temperatures and land clearing may be contributing factors. Further studies are needed to understand whether native and introduced pollinators, including bees, have declined in Australia.