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Biological Effects of a 765-KV Transmission Line: Exposure and Thresholds in Honeybee Colonies
Abstract
Honeybee colonies exposed under a 765-kV, 60-Hz transmission line at 7 kV/m show the following sequence of effects: 1) increased motor activity with transient increase in hive temperature; 2) abnormal propolization; 3) impaired hive weight gain; 4) queen loss and abnormal production of queen cells; 5) decreased sealed brood; and 6) poor winter survival. When colonies were exposed at 5 different E fields (7, 5.5, 4.1, 1.8, and 0.65–0.85 kV/m) at incremental distances from the line, different thresholds for biologic effects were obtained. Hive net weights showed significant dose-related lags at the following exposures: 7 kV/m, one week; 5.5 kV/m, 2 weeks; and 4.1 kV/m, 11 weeks. The two lowest exposure groups had normal weight after 25 weeks. Abnormal propolization of hive entrances did not occur below 4.1 kV/m. Queen loss occurred in 6 of 7 colonies at 7 kV/m and 1 of 7 at 5.5 kV/m, but not below. Foraging rates were significantly lower only at 7 and 5.5 kV/m. Hive weight impairment and abnormal propolization occur at lower E-field intensity than other effects and limit the “biological effects corridor” of the transmission line to approximately 23 m beyond a ground line projection of each outer phase wire. Intrahive E fields of 15–100 kV/m were measured with a displacement current sensor. Step-potential-induced currents up to 0.5 μA were measured in an electrically equivalent bee model placed on the honeycomb in a hive exposed at 7 kV/m. At 1.8 kV/m body currents were a few nanoamperes, or two orders of magnitude lower, and these colonies showed no effects. E-field versus electric shock mechanisms are discussed.
... That study revealed that electromagnetic stress induced a wide enzymatic over-activation at the end of the season. According to other literature findings [42,43], this enzymatic over-activation was related to a behavioral over-activation in a period in which bees should prepare themselves to over-wintering, posing potential problems to winter survival [11]. ...
... For the number of queen changes and the queen mortality in the underbasket, double the rate occurred in than in the control and even in the chemical-stress site. In particular, behavioural anomalies accorded to literature studies, as they revealed how exposure of bees to ELF frequencies leads to an increase in motor activity, with transient increase in hive temperature, hive weight loss, queen loss with abnormal royal cell production, reduced capped brood and poor winter survival [42]. In addition to electromagnetic field stress, the chronic exposure to some pesticides at sub-lethal concentrations is known to reduce the ability of overwintering and compromise the ability to feed and grow self-sufficient queens and drones [98]. ...
... Another interesting result, observed in the last sampling (14 October), refers to the ALP over-activation both in worker bees and pupae with respect to the control and to the chemical-stress site (Figure 8). This result accords to a previous finding of [11] and suggests that this enzymatic over-activation at the end of the season can be related to the presence of an electromagnetic field at low frequencies, according to several studies carried out on different model organisms [43,123] including bees [42]. The observed enzymatic over-activation at the end of the season supports the hypothesis of a behavioural overactivation in specimens which, in contrast, should reduce their activity for preserving themselves for surviving the whole winter. ...
Honeybee and general pollinator decline is extensively reported in many countries, adding new concern to the general biodiversity loss. Many studies were addressed to assess the causes of pollinator decline, concluding that in most cases multi-stress effects were the most probable ones. In this research, the combined effects of two possible stress sources for bees, pesticides and electromagnetic fields (multi-stress conditions), were analyzed in the field. Three experimental sites were chosen: a control one far from direct anthropogenic stress sources, a pesticide-stress site and multi-stress one, adding to the same exposure to pesticides the presence of an electromagnetic field, coming from a high-voltage electric line. Experimental apiaries were monitored weekly for one year (from April 2017 to April 2018) by means of colony survival, queen activity, storage and brood amount, parasites and pathogens, and several biomarkers in young workers and pupae. Both exposure and effect biomarkers were analysed: among the first, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS); and among the last, DNA fragmentation (DNAFRAGM) and lipid peroxidation (LPO). Results showed that bee health conditions were the worst in the multi-stress site with only one colony alive out of the four ones present at the beginning. In this site, a complex picture of adverse effects was observed, such as disease appearance (American foulbrood), higher mortality in the underbaskets (common to pesticide-stress site), behavioral alterations (queen changes, excess of honey storage) and biochemical anomalies (higher ALP activity at the end of the season). The overall results clearly indicate that the multi-stress conditions were able to induce biochemical, physiological and behavioral alterations which severely threatened bee colony survival.
... Bee colonies exposed to a 765 kV electric field showed abnormal activities, queen loss, production of queen cells, and weak winter survival, but at 7 and 5.5 kV m -1 foraging activity was affected passively ( Greenberg et al. 1981). Bee colonies exposed to high voltage e-fields (50 Hz) can have abnormally altered thermography during winter (Altmann, Warnke 1987). ...
... 2013; Vilić et al. 2017). Experiments have shown negative effects on foraging, clustering and other activities of honey bees under different levels of e-fields and EMFs ( Greenberg et al. 1981;Altmann, Warnke 1987;Kimmel et al. 2007;Favre 2011;Shepherd et al. 2018), but there are contrasting studies (Gary and Westerdahl 1981;Carreck 2014). The results of previous studies greatly vary according to experimental conditions, but in general support the potential hazards of EMF on honey bees. ...
Different physical factors (electric and electromagnetic fields, magnetic field, gravity, and light) can negatively affect activities of honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) either inside or outside the hives, possibly causing damage to bee colonies. In this paper, previous studies are reviewed to shed more light on the effects of these factors on honey bees, and to provide suggestions for additional investigations. Comb building, waggle dance, flight, and navigation have gained more attention than other activities. Also, worker bees have been studied more than drones and queens, and especially adults more than immature stages. Productivity aspects of bee colonies and biological parameters have not been the focus of most studies. Effects of the reviewed physical factors on bee-parasite interactions have gained little attention. The possibility of considering these physical factors as a serious hazard to honey bees is discussed. It seems that the field of honey bee physics is open for future investigations with focus on bee-parasite and bee-environment interactions.
... For some species, they may also connect habitats and allow movement between feeding or breeding areas, especially for larger mammals (Yahner 2004;Weber & Allen 2010). Electric and magnetic field (EMF) radiation from high voltage lines may pose a threat to animals living under or near these lines; both anecdotal and published accounts suggest that honey bees exhibit aggression and lower productivity when they are underneath (Wellenstein, 1973;Rogers et al. 1982;Lee and Reiner, 1983) high voltage electrical utility wires (Greenberg et al. 1981;Rogers et al. 1982;Lee & Reiner 1983). ...
... Butterflies and moths were the most rigorously studied, including three studies of the endangered Karner Blue Butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis) in the United States (Smallidge et al. 1996;Forrester et al. 2005;Lowell & Loundbury 2000) and one study of the success of reintroduced Phengaris (Maculinea) teleius and P. nausithous species in the Netherlands (Wynhoff et al. 2011). Studies of bees examined communities of native bee communities on electrical utility corridors (Russell et al. 2005) and along roadsides (Hopwood 2008), the response of honey bees to electric and magnetic waves underneath high voltage power lines (Wellenstein 1973;Greenberg et al. 1981;Rogers et al. 1982) and one study focused on bumble bees along roadsides (Hopwood et al. 2010). Studies of pollinators in general included flies and focused on Syrphidae (Free et al. 1975). ...
Early successional landscapes along or adjacent to infrastructure installations have been highlighted as potential pollinator conservation zones that provide environmental benefits and ameliorate some of the negative impacts of wildland conversion. Habitat development and management initiatives in this field are active, but vetted support for particular techniques and strategies is lacking and technical information is diffuse. We reviewed the current scientific and technical literature relating to right-of-way and roadside management to produce an overview. Surveys and comparative studies dominate the literature, with limited manipulative experimentation and limited tests of best management practices. Local floristic diversity is shown to be a determinant of butterfly, bee, and fly patterns but data is almost entirely lacking on vertebrate pollinators. The degree to which these linear landscape corridors can promote movement and connectivity is also not well addressed, yet there is a focus in the conservation community to promote migrations and movement. Contrasting results are reported for the impact of disturbance regimes associated with management (mowing and herbicide use), and there is also only minimal attention given to the potential negative impacts that are experienced by pollinators on rights-of-way. Even with the limited literary accounts of pollinator management in these landscapes we believe infrastructure landscapes can provide substantial benefits to pollinator species and ecosystem services and encourage further management-based investigations.
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... Vol. 33 (n. 4,2018) 157 difficult to shield and can penetrate biological tissues freely and interact directly with moving charges (ions, proteins, etc.) through several physical mechanisms WHO [3] . Several authors such as Greenberg, et al. and Martin, et al. [4,5] studied effects of the magnetic field that resulted from the power transmission lines on the honeybee hives and they estimated that the biology and physiology as well as behavior of the bees were obviously influenced. ...
... 4,2018) 157 difficult to shield and can penetrate biological tissues freely and interact directly with moving charges (ions, proteins, etc.) through several physical mechanisms WHO [3] . Several authors such as Greenberg, et al. and Martin, et al. [4,5] studied effects of the magnetic field that resulted from the power transmission lines on the honeybee hives and they estimated that the biology and physiology as well as behavior of the bees were obviously influenced. It is not known whether the human began keeping bees because of the healing effects of their stings or to get honey, or for both reasons. ...
Organisms always live in a certain physical environment where geomagnetic field,
cosmic magnetic field and artificial magnetic fields play an important part, among others. With
industrial development, more people are concerned about the harmful effects of the magnetic
fields on the living creatures including insects. The aims of this research are to find out the effect
of exposure to the magnetic field on the bioactivity of Apis Mellifera L. venom via anticancer
activity in vitro assay. Also, to detect the exposure effect on the general chemical composition of
the venom using FTIR spectroscopy and SDS-PAGE analysis. The results showed that the
anticancer activity of the bee venom reduced due to the exposure to the magnetic field and the
chemical composition analysis revealed changes in the peptides that present in the venom.
... For some species, they may also connect habitats and allow movement between feeding or breeding areas, especially for larger mammals (Yahner 2004;Weber & Allen 2010). Electric and magnetic field (EMF) radiation from high voltage lines may pose a threat to animals living under or near these lines; both anecdotal and published accounts suggest that honey bees exhibit aggression and lower productivity when they are underneath (Wellenstein, 1973;Rogers et al. 1982;Lee and Reiner, 1983) high voltage electrical utility wires (Greenberg et al. 1981;Rogers et al. 1982;Lee & Reiner 1983). ...
... Butterflies and moths were the most rigorously studied, including three studies of the endangered Karner Blue Butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis) in the United States (Smallidge et al. 1996;Forrester et al. 2005;Lowell & Loundbury 2000) and one study of the success of reintroduced Phengaris (Maculinea) teleius and P. nausithous species in the Netherlands (Wynhoff et al. 2011). Studies of bees examined communities of native bee communities on electrical utility corridors (Russell et al. 2005) and along roadsides (Hopwood 2008), the response of honey bees to electric and magnetic waves underneath high voltage power lines (Wellenstein 1973;Greenberg et al. 1981;Rogers et al. 1982) and one study focused on bumble bees along roadsides (Hopwood et al. 2010). Studies of pollinators in general included flies and focused on Syrphidae (Free et al. 1975). ...
... (Abdurakhmov 1980, Lee et al. 1978, Orlov and Babenko 1987, whereas others have documented clear developmental and growth inhibition and aberrations (Es'kov 19(S1, Gorokhovnikov 1981, Orlov andBabenko 1987). Recent summaries and synopses of the body of environmental research generally do not implicate EFs as a general risk factor, but confirm the presence of biological responses to the fields by a wide array of animals that are not necessarily harmful or lethal (Hester 1992 (Greenberg et al. 1978, 1981a, Horn 1982, poor hive weight, poor overwintering, abnormal propolization (Greenberg et al. 1978(Greenberg et al. , 1981a(Greenberg et al. , 1981b, and even poor foraging ability and honey production (Greenberg et al. 1978, Horn 1982. However, later research was effective in separating the effects of in-hive EFs versus the effects of "shock" (the two-contact case) when bees contacted substrates capable of facilitating induced currents, in this case moisture-coated hive tunnels (Bindokas et al. 1988a(Bindokas et al. , 1988b. ...
... (Abdurakhmov 1980, Lee et al. 1978, Orlov and Babenko 1987, whereas others have documented clear developmental and growth inhibition and aberrations (Es'kov 19(S1, Gorokhovnikov 1981, Orlov andBabenko 1987). Recent summaries and synopses of the body of environmental research generally do not implicate EFs as a general risk factor, but confirm the presence of biological responses to the fields by a wide array of animals that are not necessarily harmful or lethal (Hester 1992 (Greenberg et al. 1978, 1981a, Horn 1982, poor hive weight, poor overwintering, abnormal propolization (Greenberg et al. 1978(Greenberg et al. , 1981a(Greenberg et al. , 1981b, and even poor foraging ability and honey production (Greenberg et al. 1978, Horn 1982. However, later research was effective in separating the effects of in-hive EFs versus the effects of "shock" (the two-contact case) when bees contacted substrates capable of facilitating induced currents, in this case moisture-coated hive tunnels (Bindokas et al. 1988a(Bindokas et al. , 1988b. ...
... Field studies on honey bees, Apis mellifera colonies underneath 765 kV power lines (EF ca. 7 kV/m) showed an increase in agitation at the entrance of the hive besides a decrease in foraging rates (Greenberg et al., 1981). Laboratory studies have reported that EFs induce several altered behavioral responses in insects, including avoidance behavior in the cockroach, Periplaneta americana (Newland et al., 2008), cigarette beetle, Lasioderma serricorne and the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster (Matsuda et al. 2011), disturbance in the flight behavior of the cabbage loopers, Trichoplusia ni (Perumpral et al., 1978) and reduced walking activity of the ichneumon wasp, Itoplectis conquisitor (Maw, 1961) and cockroaches (Jackson et al., 2011). ...
... There are also indications that static electric fields adversely affect invertebrate development, for example, larvae of the phantom hemlock looper, N phantasmaria, take longer to emerge and adult female fecundity decreases during exposure to 18kV 1m static electric fields (Edwards, 1961). There are also reports that static electric fields detrimentally affect honey bee colonies beneath high voltage power lines, exemplified by queen loss and decreased foraging (Greenberg et al., 1981 a;Greenberg et al., 1981b). 30kV/m or 185kV/m static electric fields do not, however, elicit mutations in Drosophila larvae or adults (Diebolt, 1978;Hungate and Richardson, 1978), and behavioural contradictions have been observed in insects exposed to static electric fields varying from 1kV/m to 100kV/m (Edwards, 1960a;Perumpral et al., 1978). ...
p>The investigations presented in this thesis have contributed to understanding how insects respond to friction charged surfaces and static electric fields, why these responses occur, and their impacts on insect fitness. Using the cockroach Periplaneta americana and the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster as models, the results show that insects avoid friction charged surfaces and static electric fields, and avoidance is dependent on field strength.
Computer field modelling software and high-speed video illustrated that electric fields exert forces on cockroach sensory appendages, notably the antennae, causing passive antennal movement. A combination of behavioural bioassays and electrophysiology studies identified exteroceptors on the bas of the antennae, specifically on the scalpel hair plate, as the primary means by which cockroaches detect state electric fields and evoke avoidance. The antennae as a whole, and mechanoreceptors located on other appendages, may be responsible for detecting static electric fields of higher magnitudes. Static electric fields also evoked behavioural changes in free-moving cockroaches, specifically klino- and orthokinesis, and a preference for regions containing no static electric fields was exhibited. By investigating these behavioural responses and examining life-history traits, it was concluded that long-term static electric field exposure may not impact the fitness of cockroaches or Drosophila. It remains possible, however, that field strengths higher than those used in this study may detrimentally affect insects. The findings presented here have furthered current understanding of the influence of electric fields on insects and provide the basis for further work to be carried out within pure and applied research remits.</p
... Elektromagnetiske felt («electromagnetic radiation», EMR) har fått mer oppmerksomhet i det siste for sin potensielle negative effekt på pollinatorer, her spesielt sosiale bier som honningbier. At elektromagnetiske felt og sterke kraftlinjer (Figur 12) påvirker atferden hos honningbier ble allerede observert tidlig på 80-tallet (Greenberg et al., 1981). Konsekvenser for eksponerte bifolk var, for eksempel, økt aktivitetsnivå med temperaturøkning i bikuben som følge, anormal produksjon av propolis (et stoff bier produserer bl.a. for å tette hull i bikuben), tap av dronninger og anormal produksjon av dronningceller, redusert suksess for bi-yngel, og mindre overlevelse gjennom vintersesongen. ...
Pollinating insects are in decline over large parts of the world. This global decline is expected to have adverse consequences for biodiversity, ecosystem services and food production in the future. Norway has prepared a pollinator strategy where the goal is, among other things, to ensure viable populations of pollinating insects in order to maintain pollination in food production. This report provides a broad overview of research-based knowledge of factors that affect pollinators and pollination services in different landscapes, as well as an overview of different models for predicting the occurrence of pollinators.
... This warrants immediate investigation because any anthropogenically induced modification of the behaviour of key pollinators, namely bees, could have significant ecological consequences. Indeed, it has already been shown that honeybee colonies situated underneath power lines suffer adverse effects, including significantly reduced survival (Greenberg et al., 1981a;Greenberg, Bindokas & Gauger, 1981b). Whether or not these effects are the result of detection of the anthropogenic electric fields is not yet known, however, as honeybees have been shown to utilise electroreception in their communication (Greggers et al., 2013), it is very plausible that the strong electric fields under power lines are interfering negatively with this system. ...
Electricity, the interaction between electrically charged objects, is widely known to be fundamental to the functioning of living systems. However, this appreciation has largely been restricted to the scale of atoms, molecules, and cells. By contrast , the role of electricity at the ecological scale has historically been largely neglected, characterised by punctuated islands of research infrequently connected to one another. Recently, however, an understanding of the ubiquity of electrical forces within the natural environment has begun to grow, along with a realisation of the multitude of ecological interactions that these forces may influence. Herein, we provide the first comprehensive collation and synthesis of research in this emerging field of electric ecology. This includes assessments of the role electricity plays in the natural ecology of predator-prey interactions, pollination, and animal dispersal, among many others, as well as the impact of anthropogenic activity on these systems. A detailed introduction to the ecology and physiology of electroreception-the biological detection of ecologically relevant electric fields-is also provided. Further to this, we suggest avenues for future research that show particular promise, most notably those investigating the recently discovered sense of aerial electroreception.
... The primary reasons include parasitic mites, viruses, pesticides, genetically modified crops and climate changes. More recently however the electromagnetic environment has been suggested to be crucially influential on honey bee behavior and physiology as reported by Greenberg et al. (1981); Eskov et al. (1982); Cartensen (1987); Sharma and Kumar. (2009); Kumar et al (2009). ...
The increasing level of electromagnetic frequency radiations in the atmosphere is giving rise to a new type of environmental pollution referred to as 'Electrosmog'. The honey bees are susceptible to environmental changes, diseases and are attacked by natural enemies. Recently a sharp decline in the population of honey bees has been observed all over the world. This decline in population is not necessarily due to the natural enemies but is often caused by the activities of man such as deforestation, habitat alterations and now unscientific proliferation of cell phones and use of electronic gadgets. Therefore in the present study the impact of cell phone radiations on various biochemical and physiochemical aspects of haemolymph and semen of drone honey bee Apis mellifera L. was observed. The drones were exposed to radiations for 30 minutes, using live cell phones kept in working mode with tape recorder at the speaker end, and positive response at the receiver's end. The parameters were analyzed and compared with that of control drones. The concentration of various biomolecules-viz. carbohydrates, proteins and lipids were found to be increased whereas, the activities of seminal enzymes decreased leading to reduced utilization of the biomolecules, and hence increase in their concentration.
... Honeybee colonies exposed to a 765-kV, 60-Hz transmission line at 7 kV/m showed increased motor activity, abnormal propolisation, impaired hive weight gain, queen loss, abnormal production of queen cells, decreased sealed brood and poor winter survival. When the colonies were exposed to different electric fields with increasing distance from the line, different thresholds for biological effects were obtained (Greenberg et al., 1981). Another more recent study has shown that the extremely low-frequency EMF (50 Hz) emitted from powerlines affects honeybee olfactory learning, flight, foraging activity and feeding and may represent a prominent environmental stressor for honeybees, potentially reducing their ability to pollinate crops (Shepherd et al., 2018). ...
The biodiversity of insects is threatened worldwide. Numerous studies have reported the serious decline in insects that has occurred in recent decades. The same is happening with the important group of pollinators, with an essential utility for pollination of crops. Loss of insect diversity and abundance is expected to provoke cascading effects on food webs and ecosystem services. Many authors point out that reductions in insect abundance must be attributed mainly to agricultural practices and pesticide use. On the other hand, evidence for the effects of non-thermal microwave radiation on insects has been known for at least 50 years. The review carried out in this study shows that electromagnetic radiation should be considered seriously as a complementary driver for the dramatic decline in insects, acting in synergy with agricultural intensification, pesticides, invasive species and climate change. The extent that anthropogenic electromagnetic radiation represents a significant threat to insect pollinators is unresolved and plausible. For these reasons, and taking into account the benefits they provide to nature and humankind, the precautionary principle should be applied before any new deployment (such 5G) is considered.
... Effects of electromagnetic radiations emitted by antennas, mobile phones, and high-voltage transport lines have been studied in humans (e.g., Leszczynski et al. 2002;Gandhi and Singh 2005;Hardell and Sage 2008), rats (e.g., Lai and Singh 1996), bats (e.g., Nicholls and Racey 2007) birds (e.g., Everaert and Bauwens 2007), frogs (e.g., Balmori 2006) and insects (e.g., Weisbrot et al. 2003). In bees, several authors studied the effect of high-frequency radiations (0.8-3 GHz) typical of mobile phones and mobile-phone transmission antennas (Sharma and Kumar 2010;Favre 2011;Vilić et al. 2017), as well as those of Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) typical of high-voltage electric transmission lines (Greenberg et al. 1981;Bindokas et al. 1988;Martin et al. 1989;Kirschvink et al. 1997). Honeybees possess magnetite crystals in their fat body cells able to respond to minute changes in the constant local geomagnetic field intensity. ...
The effects of pesticide mixtures and electric and magnetic fields on honeybees were evaluated in three experimental sites located in northern Italy: a control site far from anthropogenic-stress sources, a semi-natural site close to a high-voltage electric line and an agricultural site with intensive pesticide use. From each experimental site, young workers and foraging bees were taken monthly from May to October and analyzed for four enzymatic biomarkers: acetylcholinesterase (AChE), catalase (CAT), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). The results revealed time- and site-specific effects in respect to control site, confirming the role of biomarkers as diagnostic and early-warning tools for multi-stress sources on honeybees. In the electromagnetic-stress site, the effect of an over-activation of all analyzed biomarkers was observed at the end of the season. According to other literature findings, this event was related to a behavioral over-activation in a period in which bees should prepare themselves for overwintering. This finding poses potential problems for winter survival. In the pesticide-stress site, different pesticide-induced responses were identified. We demonstrated in the field that pesticide mixtures currently used in agriculture could greatly affect the biochemical parameters of bees (with both enzymatic under- and over-activations).
... Le attuali frequenze prodotte da linee di trasmissione elettriche, reti cellulari e ripetitori alterano le abilità di navigazione delle api disorientandole e impedendo di tornare agli alveari (Wellenstein,1973;Warnke, 1975Warnke, , 1976Greenberg et al., 1981;Kimmel et al., 2007 ...
Il problema dell’invasività e dei rischi dei campi elettromagnetici ad alta frequenza è già stato trattato dalle nostre Associazioni. Nel corso degli anni si sono accumulate numerose evidenze sull’effetto nefasto di questa forma di inquinamento sulla salute umana e sull’ambiente.
Nell’ultimo decennio sono state diffuse risoluzioni scientifiche e governative, consensi scientifici e documenti di posizione, rapporti di gruppi di scienziati indipendenti e appelli ai governi per invitare a limitare la diffusione dell’uso di tecnologie di comunicazione promuovendo standard di sicurezza per i campi elettromagnetici basati su evidenze biologiche.
Alle raccomandazioni provenienti dal mondo scientifico, purtroppo, come nel caso dei pesticidi, delle emissioni in atmosfera e degli inquinanti organici persistenti (POP), è generalmente seguita una notevole inerzia normativa sia a livello europeo che nazionale. Ancora di più è trascurato, a livello politico e amministrativo, l’effetto sinergico di queste fonti di inquinamento, così come il Principio di Precauzione che dovrebbe guidare qualsiasi scelta in ambito gestionale.
Nel frattempo i campi elettromagnetici artificiali e l’inquinamento diffuso hanno continuato ad aumentare significativamente per motivazioni più legate a interessi economici privati che a effettive necessità o al concreto interesse per la salute pubblica e la tutela ambientale.
Negli ultimi tempi una notevole inquietudine si è diffusa anche presso i non addetti ai lavori per la nuova tecnologia 5G che minaccia, in un quadro già pericoloso almeno a livello locale, un ulteriore incremento dei campi elettromagnetici artificiali e l’utilizzo di frequenze mai utilizzate su così ampia scala in assenza di regole adeguate e di efficaci sistemi di monitoraggio dell’esposizione pubblica.
Per questi motivi e per porre, ancora una volta, all’attenzione pubblica e ai mass media i rischi correlati a queste tecnologie abbiamo trattato in maniera per quanto possibile sintetica le informazioni provenienti dalla ricerca scientifica, offrendo al lettore una notevole bibliografia con la quale aumentare la propria conoscenza e farsi una propria idea della situazione presente, a nostro parere già inquietante.
Le conclusioni a cui siamo giunti è che, se è vero che non si possono bloccare le innovazioni tecnologiche, esse devono essere tuttavia impiegate su larga scala solo dopo averne compiutamente considerato i possibili impatti ambientali e sanitari e solo dopo un efficace adeguamento delle normative in relazione alle conoscenze scientifiche, privilegiando la salute e l’ambiente prima di qualsiasi interesse economico.
Per tutelare la salute pubblica si rende indispensabile recepire gli studi scientifici più recenti ed attuare quanto indicato dalla Raccomandazione 1815 dell’Assemblea Plenaria del Consiglio d’Europa del 2011, volta ad abbassare i limiti di esposizione alle radiofrequenza in relazione all’uso privato di telefoni mobili, telefoni DECT (cordless), WiFi, WLAN e WIMAX per computer, Baby Phones a 0,2 V/m sul “lungo termine”, mentre secondo il rapporto Bionitiative 2012 sulla base delle evidenze sperimentali e del principio di precauzione deve essere portato a 0,6 V/m nell’immediato.
In relazione al 5G, fermi restando i presupposti di cui sopra, è necessaria una moratoria per valutare adeguatamente gli effetti sulla salute e sull’ambiente delle frequenze utilizzate, anche in relazione alla loro prevista onni-pervadenza. Vanno inoltre valutati i possibili effetti sulla sempre più folta comunità degli Elettrosensibili e sui soggetti potenzialmente più vulnerabili, come i bambini.
Riteniamo inoltre doveroso, sulla base delle evidenze disponibili, il divieto di installazione di reti Wi-Fi negli asili e nelle scuole frequentate da bambini e ragazzi al di sotto dei 16 anni e il divieto di posizionamento di ripetitori di radiotelefonia in prossimità degli stessi luoghi..
Vi deve essere obbligo, per le Agenzie di Salute Pubblica, di valutare i rischi per la salute connessi alle radiofrequenze, selezionando studi scientifici indipendenti ed escludendo quelli finanziati dall’industria delle telecomunicazioni o da fondazioni ed enti finanziati dalla stessa.
Riteniamo che debba essere sottoposto a Valutazione Ambientale Strategica l’intera Strategia per le Telecomunicazioni. Ricordiamo che il processo di VAS impone criteri ampi di partecipazione, tutela degli interessi legittimi e trasparenza del processo decisionale, attraverso il coinvolgimento e la consultazione dei soggetti competenti in materia ambientale e del pubblico che in interessato dall’iter decisionale.
Auspichiamo la promozione di investimenti pubblici e detassazione per la connettività in fibra ottica e via cavo, che è la tecnologia più efficiente e sicura per la salute e per l’ambiente.
Su questi presupposti siamo lieti di offrire al pubblico il nostro rapporto, svolto in modo del tutto indipendente.
Gradiamo costruttivi feedback per migliorare ulteriormente la conoscenza di base e la divulgazione delle problematiche correlate all’incremento dei campi elettromagnetici artificiali e alla necessità di un adeguata normativa e di processi per quanto possibile trasparenti e partecipati di valutazione degli impatti delle nuove tecnologie.
... Le attuali frequenze prodotte da linee di trasmissione elettriche, reti cellulari e ripetitori alterano le abilità di navigazione delle api disorientandole e impedendo di tornare agli alveari (Wellenstein,1973;Warnke, 1975Warnke, , 1976Greenberg et al., 1981;Kimmel et al., 2007 ...
Il problema dell’invasività e dei rischi dei campi elettromagnetici ad alta frequenza è già stato trattato dalle nostre Associazioni. Nel corso degli anni si sono accumulate numerose evidenze sull’effetto nefasto di questa forma di inquinamento sulla salute umana e sull’ambiente.
Nell’ultimo decennio sono state diffuse risoluzioni scientifiche e governative, consensi scientifici e documenti di posizione, rapporti di gruppi di scienziati indipendenti e appelli ai governi per invitare a limitare la diffusione dell’uso di tecnologie di comunicazione promuovendo standard di sicurezza per i campi elettromagnetici basati su evidenze biologiche.
Alle raccomandazioni provenienti dal mondo scientifico, purtroppo, come nel caso dei pesticidi, delle emissioni in atmosfera e degli inquinanti organici persistenti (POP), è generalmente seguita una notevole inerzia normativa sia a livello europeo che nazionale. Ancora di più è trascurato, a livello politico e amministrativo, l’effetto sinergico di queste fonti di inquinamento, così come il Principio di Precauzione che dovrebbe guidare qualsiasi scelta in ambito gestionale.
Nel frattempo i campi elettromagnetici artificiali e l’inquinamento diffuso hanno continuato ad aumentare significativamente per motivazioni più legate a interessi economici privati che a effettive necessità o al concreto interesse per la salute pubblica e la tutela ambientale.
Negli ultimi tempi una notevole inquietudine si è diffusa anche presso i non addetti ai lavori per la nuova tecnologia 5G che minaccia, in un quadro già pericoloso almeno a livello locale, un ulteriore incremento dei campi elettromagnetici artificiali e l’utilizzo di frequenze mai utilizzate su così ampia scala in assenza di regole adeguate e di efficaci sistemi di monitoraggio dell’esposizione pubblica.
Per questi motivi e per porre, ancora una volta, all’attenzione pubblica e ai mass media i rischi correlati a queste tecnologie abbiamo trattato in maniera per quanto possibile sintetica le informazioni provenienti dalla ricerca scientifica, offrendo al lettore una notevole bibliografia con la quale aumentare la propria conoscenza e farsi una propria idea della situazione presente, a nostro parere già inquietante.
Le conclusioni a cui siamo giunti è che, se è vero che non si possono bloccare le innovazioni tecnologiche, esse devono essere tuttavia impiegate su larga scala solo dopo averne compiutamente considerato i possibili impatti ambientali e sanitari e solo dopo un efficace adeguamento delle normative in relazione alle conoscenze scientifiche, privilegiando la salute e l’ambiente prima di qualsiasi interesse economico.
Per tutelare la salute pubblica si rende indispensabile recepire gli studi scientifici più recenti ed attuare quanto indicato dalla Raccomandazione 1815 dell’Assemblea Plenaria del Consiglio d’Europa del 2011, volta ad abbassare i limiti di esposizione alle radiofrequenza in relazione all’uso privato di telefoni mobili, telefoni DECT (cordless), WiFi, WLAN e WIMAX per computer, Baby Phones a 0,2 V/m sul “lungo termine”, mentre secondo il rapporto Bionitiative 2012 sulla base delle evidenze sperimentali e del principio di precauzione deve essere portato a 0,6 V/m nell’immediato.
In relazione al 5G, fermi restando i presupposti di cui sopra, è necessaria una moratoria per valutare adeguatamente gli effetti sulla salute e sull’ambiente delle frequenze utilizzate, anche in relazione alla loro prevista onni-pervadenza. Vanno inoltre valutati i possibili effetti sulla sempre più folta comunità degli Elettrosensibili e sui soggetti potenzialmente più vulnerabili, come i bambini.
Riteniamo inoltre doveroso, sulla base delle evidenze disponibili, il divieto di installazione di reti Wi-Fi negli asili e nelle scuole frequentate da bambini e ragazzi al di sotto dei 16 anni e il divieto di posizionamento di ripetitori di radiotelefonia in prossimità degli stessi luoghi..
Vi deve essere obbligo, per le Agenzie di Salute Pubblica, di valutare i rischi per la salute connessi alle radiofrequenze, selezionando studi scientifici indipendenti ed escludendo quelli finanziati dall’industria delle telecomunicazioni o da fondazioni ed enti finanziati dalla stessa.
Riteniamo che debba essere sottoposto a Valutazione Ambientale Strategica l’intera Strategia per le Telecomunicazioni. Ricordiamo che il processo di VAS impone criteri ampi di partecipazione, tutela degli interessi legittimi e trasparenza del processo decisionale, attraverso il coinvolgimento e la consultazione dei soggetti competenti in materia ambientale e del pubblico che in interessato dall’iter decisionale.
Auspichiamo la promozione di investimenti pubblici e detassazione per la connettività in fibra ottica e via cavo, che è la tecnologia più efficiente e sicura per la salute e per l’ambiente.
Su questi presupposti siamo lieti di offrire al pubblico il nostro rapporto, svolto in modo del tutto indipendente.
Gradiamo costruttivi feedback per migliorare ulteriormente la conoscenza di base e la divulgazione delle problematiche correlate all’incremento dei campi elettromagnetici artificiali e alla necessità di un adeguata normativa e di processi per quanto possibile trasparenti e partecipati di valutazione degli impatti delle nuove tecnologie.
... In addition, some older studies imply that extremely low-frequency (ELF) electric and magnetic fields emitted by power lines can have local adverse effects on honey bees -mainly due to changes in behavior (stinging). These effects, however, quickly diminish with distance to the power lines or in absence of a conducting medium (Greenberg et al., 1981;Bindokas et al., 1988aBindokas et al., , 1988bBindokas et al., , 1989. At this current time, not many studies are available that are investigating the influence of such irradiation on bees and other important pollinators. ...
Mobile phones can be found almost everywhere across the globe, upholding a direct point-to-point connection between the device and the broadcast tower. The emission of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) puts the surrounding environment inevitably into contact with this radiation. We have therefore exposed honey bee queen larvae to the radiation of a common mobile phone device (GSM band at 900 MHz) during all stages of their pre-adult development including pupation. After 14 days of exposure, hatching of adult queens was assessed and mating success after further 11 days, respectively. Moreover, full colonies were established of five of the untreated and four of the treated queens to contrast population dynamics. We found that mobile phone radiation had significantly reduced the hatching ratio but not the mating success. If treated queens had successfully mated, colony development was not adversely affected. We provide evidence that mobile phone radiation may alter pupal development, once succeeded this point, no further impairment has manifested in adulthood. Our results are discussed against the background of long-lasting consequences for colony performance and the possible implication on periodic colony losses.
... The primary reasons include parasitic mites, viruses, pesticides, genetically modified crops and climate changes. More recently however the electromagnetic environment has been suggested to be crucially influential on honey bee behavior and physiology as reported by Greenberg et al. (1981); Eskov et al. (1982); Cartensen (1987); Sharma and Kumar. (2009); Kumar et al (2009). ...
The effects of Electromagnetic radiations (EMR) are being felt by wildlife and the environment as a whole, birds, bees, worms, trees are being affected. So the main focus of present study was carried out to analyse the influence of cell phone radiations on the biochemical aspects of drone of Apis mellifera L. The drone was exposed for 30 mins to radiations using live cell phones kept in working mode with tape recorder at the speaker end and positive response at the receiver's end. The results of the treatment were analyzed and compared with the control. The concentration of various biomolecules increased from 1.65 mg/ml to 2.75 mg/ml for carbohydrates , 3.74 mg/ ml to 4.85 mg/ml for proteins and from 0.325 mg/ml to 1.33 mg/ml for lipids under the influence of EMR.
... Cep telefonlarından yayılan radyasyonun etkisinin değerlendirilmesi ile ilgili yapılan çalışmalarda; cep telefonunun radyasyonuna maruz kalan işçi arıların, kontrol grubundaki arılarla kıyaslandığında uçuş aktivitesi nedeniyle kovandan ayrılan test grubundaki işçi arıların kovana geri dönmediği, sağlıklı çerçeve sayısının azaldığı, kraliçe arının yumurta bırakma sayısının düştüğü gözlenmiştir (Sahip, 2011;Sharma ve Kumar, 2010). Yumurta verimiyle ilgili yüksek voltaja maruz kalan kraliçe arıların az sayıda yumurta bıraktığı (Greenberg et al., 1981) yine kraliçe arıların cep telefonu radyasyonuna maruz kalması dolayısıyla sadece oğul döl verdiği gözlenmiştir (Brandes ve Frish, 1986). ...
Özet Bal arıları sadece bal ve bal ürünlerini (propolis, pollen, arı sütü ve bal mumu) ürettikleri için değil, aynı zamanda dünyada tarımsal üretimin gerçekleşmesi için gerekli olan en etkili tozlaştırıcılardan biridir. Bu sebeplerden dolayı, bal arıları tarımsal ekonomi ve üretimde temel role sahiptir. Çeşitli çalışmalardan elde edilen veriler değerlendirildiğinde birçok ülkede sebebi açıklanamayan arı koloni kayıpları vurgulanmış ve bunun gelecekteki etkileri hakkında endişe duyulmaya başlanmıştır. Bal arılarının aniden yok olması, kovan önünde ölü arıların bulunması, az sayıda ergin arı bulunması, bal üretiminde azalma, ürünlerin tozlaşmasında azalma 'Koloni Kaybı Sendromu' olarak adlandırılan durumun belirtileridir. Koloni kaybına pestisitler, gutasyon sıvısı, patojenler, zararlılar, küresel ısınma, cep telefonu radyasyonu ve stres gibi birçok faktör neden olmaktadır. Bu çalışmada bal arıları kayıplarının nedenleri ve bu nedenlere ışık tutacak potansiyel çözümler üzerinde durulmuştur. Anahtar Kelimeler: Bal arısı, koloni kaybı sendromu Honey Bee Colony Losses Abstract Honey bees not only produce the honey and hive products (propolis, pollen, royal jelly and wax) but also they are one of the most effective pollinators that are required for the realization of agricultural production in the world. In this manner, they have a fundamental role in global agricultural economy and production. The recent reports from various studies emphasized the unexplained losses of bee colonies in many countries and many governments have started to concern future effects of this occasion. Sudden disappearance of worker bees, dead bees in front of the hive, low number of adult bees, less produced honey and low pollinated crops are the symptoms which is described as colony collapse disorder (CCD). Colony losses seem to be driven by many factors such as pesticides, guttation water, pathogens, pests, global warming, cell phone radiation and stress factors. This review focuses on the reasons of honey bee decline and the potential solutions to shed light to honey bee disappearence.
... Very few field experiments have been carried out to ascertain the possible effects of high frequency electromagnetic radiation on populations of wild animals. However studies have shown that electromagnetic radiation can influence the development, reproduction, and physiology of insects [33], mammals [34], and birds [35]. Our results demonstrate that an electromagnetic signal from a small radar unit with a fixed antenna invariably reduced the foraging activity of bats within 30 m of the unit. ...
Large numbers of bats are killed by collisions with wind turbines and there is at present no accepted method of reducing or preventing this mortality. Following our demonstration that bat activity is reduced in the vicinity of large air traffic control and weather radars, we tested the hypothesis that an electromagnetic signal from a small portable radar can act as a deterrent to foraging bats. From June to September 2007 bat activity was compared at 20 foraging sites in northeast Scotland during experimental trials (radar switched on) and control trials (no radar signal). Starting 45 minutes after sunset, bat activity was recorded for a period of 30 minutes during each trial and the order of trials were alternated between nights. From July to September 2008 aerial insects at 16 of these sites were sampled using two miniature light-suction traps. At each site one of the traps was exposed to a radar signal and the other functioned as a control. Bat activity and foraging effort per unit time were significantly reduced during experimental trials when the radar antenna was fixed to produce a unidirectional signal therefore maximising exposure of foraging bats to the radar beam. However, although bat activity was significantly reduced during such trials, the radar had no significant effect on the abundance of insects captured by the traps.
... Биологическое действие магнитных и элек тромагнитных полей было выявлено в иссле дованиях на разных функциях и на разных объектах, в том числе на беспозвоночных жи вотных [2,7,[9][10][11]. Эффекты слабых электро магнитных излучений (ЭМИ) обладают рядом особенностей, которые широко изучались в последние годы [1]. ...
Для изучения влияния слабого электромагнитного излучения на простые формы поведения использовали в качестве объекта взрослых жуков мучного хрущака Tenebrio molitor. Исследоваа ли двигательное поведение жуков при альтернативных мотивациях – положительной (пищее вая) и отрицательной (избегание света) – в одних и тех же условиях опытов. Жуки в определенн ной емкости добирались до цели – картофель или укрытие от света. Опыт состоял из одной пробы ежедневно в течение пяти дней. Регистрировали время достижения цели группами жуу ков. Поведение в обоих случаях развивалось одинаково по схеме: вначале ориентировочная рее акция, затем адаптация к обстановке. Воздействие слабым электромагнитным излучением на жуков приводило к увеличению времени реакций в начальной стадии опытов. Эффект облучее ния носил сезонный характер и различался в двух формах поведения. Ключевые слова: поведение беспозвоночных, мучной хрущак Tenebrio molitor, пищевое поведение, электромагнитное излучение.
The influence of weak electromagnetic radiation on simple forms of behavior was studied on the model of the motor behavior of the imago grain beetle (Tenebrio molitor). Positive (feeding) and negative (ill lumination) motivations were created in the same experimental conditions. Beetles in a Petri dish were put to the starting point of a special container. The goal (a peace of potato or a box protected from light) was in the other fixed point of the container. Time of the goal reaching by groups of beetles was recorded in one daily trial in the course of five consecutive days. Under conditions of both motivations, behavioral phases such as orienting reaction and environmental adaptation were observed. Exposure to weak elecc tromagnetic radiation resulted in an increase in the reaction time at the initial stage of the experiment. The effect was of a seasonal character and varied depending on the behavioral form.
... The queens in the test colonies produced fewer eggs/day (100) compared to the control (350). It has previously been reported that there is low egg laying rate in queens exposed to high voltage transmission lines (Greenberg et al., 1981) or exposure of the queen bees to cell phone radiation stimulated her to produce only drones (Brandes and Frish, 1986).Thus electromagnetic radiation (EMR) exposure provides a better explanation for Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) than other theories. The path of CCD in India has followed the rapid development of cell phone towers and cell phones, which cause atmospheric electromagnetic radiation. ...
Apiculture has developed into an important industry in India as honey and bee-wax have become common products. Recently, a sharp decline in population of honey bees has been observed in Kerala. Although the bees are susceptible to diseases and attacked by natural enemies like wasps, ants and wax moth, constant vigilance on the part of the bee keepers can overcome these adverse conditions. The present plunge in population (< 0.01) was not due to these reasons. It was caused by man due to unscientific proliferation of towers and mobile phones.
... Verschiedene Effekte elektromagnetischer Strahlung wurden im Laufe der vergangenen Jahrzehnte intensiv untersucht (Greenberg et al. 1981, Hartsgrove et al. 1987, Eulitz et al. 1998, Rothmana 2000 (Vareschi & Kaissling 1970, Hoefer & Lindauer 1976. Die Art und Weise des Lernverhaltens der Honigbiene sowie die Informationsverarbeitung innerhalb des Stocks wurde in einer Vielzahl von Studien untersucht (Tautz 1996, Zhang et al. 1999, Giurfa 2003, Schmickl 2003, ebenso wie die Informationsverarbeitung im Bienengehirn (Locatelli et al. 2005). ...
... Verschiedene Effekte elektromagnetischer Strahlung wurden im Laufe der vergangenen Jahrzehnte intensiv untersucht (Greenberg et al. 1981, Hartsgrove et al. 1987, Eulitz et al. 1998, Rothmana 2000Vareschi & Kaissling 1970, Hoefer & Lindauer 1976). Die Art und Weise des Lernverhaltens der Honigbiene sowie die Informationsverarbeitung innerhalb des Stocks wurde in einer Vielzahl von Studien untersucht (Tautz 1996, Zhang et al. 1999, Giurfa 2003, Schmickl 2003), ebenso wie die Informationsverarbeitung im Bienengehirn (Locatelli et al. 2005). ...
This study focuses on the influences of non-ionizing radiation towards the behaviour of the honeybee (Apis mellifera). Besides the exposition and the effects of chemicals there is a certain increase of radiation impact in today’s environment. In ecotoxicology, the honeybee (Apis mellifera) is of great importance as a test species for agricultural chemicals, e. g. plant protection products and pesticides. In this case, significant variations in the behaviour of Apis mellifera under the influence of non-ionizing radiation are tested. As source of exposition standard commercial DECT telephones are used, namely „Thomson Deriva 155”. Concerning possible variations in behaviour an experimental setup with radiated, shielded exposed and non – influenced bee colonies was assembled. A main emphasis lies on the investigation on significant changes in the foraging behaviour under electromagnetic radiation influence. Therefore, 15 bees were trapped at the hive entrance, marked and brought to a defined point in the near area. There, all marked bees were set free and returning time as well as numbers of returned bees were counted and registered.
This presented data is based on earlier studies from 2005, which showed significant differences in returning for the radiated bees, in some cases up to 70% loss compared to the non-influenced ones. The experiments are part of a study-setting to investigate different aspects of the influence of the stress factor electromagnetic radiation on Apis mellifera.
... All researches and tests have been carried out at the Dienstleistungszentrum Ländlicher Raum (DLR), Fachzentrum Bienen und Imkerei, in Mayen during June/July 2006. There have been several scientific investigations throughout the past years concerning the electromagnetic radiation and its effects (Greenberg et al., 1981; Hartsgrove et al., 1987; Eulitz et al., 1998; Rothmana, 2000). In context of the increasing non-ionising radiation, this study focus on the effects of electromagnetic exposition on the behaviour of the honeybee. ...
Focussing on the influences of non-ionizing radiation towards the behaviour of the honeybee (Apis mellifera), the here presented study reports partially significant results. Nowadays, there is a certain increase of radiation impact in today's environmental ecosystems, and the influence of higher frequencies on honey bees is analyzed by the workgroup "educational informatics" since 2001 (Stever & Kuhn 2001; Kuhn & Stever 2001; Kuhn & Stever 2002). In ecotoxicology, the honeybee (Apis mellifera) is of great importance as a tested species for agricultural chemicals, e. g. plant protection products and pesticides. In this case, significant variations in the behaviour of Apis mellifera under the influence of non-ionizing radiation were tested. The presented data set is based on earlier studies from 2005, which showed significant differences in returning, 39.7% of the non-irradiated bees came back compared to 7.3% of the irradiated ones. Standard commercial DECT telephones were used as exposition source. Concerning possible variations in behaviour an experimental setup with irradiated and non-irradiated bee hives was assembled. The main emphasis of this study was the investigation on significant changes in the foraging flight under electromagnetic radiation influence.
... Very few field experiments have been carried out to ascertain the possible effects of high frequency electromagnetic radiation on populations of wild animals. However studies have shown that electromagnetic radiation can influence the development, reproduction, and physiology of insects [33], mammals [34], and birds [35]. Our results demonstrate that an electromagnetic signal from a small radar unit with a fixed antenna invariably reduced the foraging activity of bats within 30 m of the unit. ...
Large numbers of bats are killed by collisions with wind turbines and there is at present no accepted method of reducing or preventing this mortality. Following our demonstration that bat activity is reduced in the vicinity of large air traffic control and weather radars, we tested the hypothesis that an electromagnetic signal from a small portable radar can act as a deterrent to foraging bats. From June to September 2007 bat activity was compared at 20 foraging sites in northeast Scotland during experimental trials (radar switched on) and control trials (no radar signal). Starting 45 minutes after sunset, bat activity was recorded for a period of 30 minutes during each trial and the order of trials were alternated between nights. From July to September 2008 aerial insects at 16 of these sites were sampled using two miniature light-suction traps. At each site one of the traps was exposed to a radar signal and the other functioned as a control. Bat activity and foraging effort per unit time were significantly reduced during experimental trials when the radar antenna was fixed to produce a unidirectional signal therefore maximising exposure of foraging bats to the radar beam. However, although bat activity was significantly reduced during such trials, the radar had no significant effect on the abundance of insects captured by the traps.
... Two categories of mechanisms appear to be responsible. One is from electrical shock from induced fields in the body of the bee; the other mechanism is related to direct exposure to electric fields (72). There are two simple solutions to the problem of hive disruption. ...
A review of the literature is provided for the topic of health-related research and power frequency electromagnetic fields. Minimal evidence for concern is present on the basis of animal and plant research. General observation would accord with the implication that there is no single and manifest health effect as the result of exposure to these fields. There are persistent indications, however, that these fields have biologic activity, and consequently, there may be a deleterious component to their action, possibly in the presence of other factors. Power frequency electromagnetic field exposures are essentially ubiquitous in modern society, and their implications in the larger perspective of public health are unclear at this time. Electromagnetic fields represent a methodological obstacle for epidemiologic studies and a quandary for risk assessment; there is need for more data.
... Although behavioural effects of such exposure on humans include perception, aversion, work perturbation, work stoppage and convulsions [23], few field experiments have been carried out to ascertain the possible effects of high frequency electromagnetic radiation on wild animals. However, electromagnetic radiation can influence the development, reproduction, and physiology of insects [24], mammals [25], and birds [26]. There is no current direct evidence to suggest that bats can detect or respond to electromagnetic radiation. ...
Large numbers of bats are killed by collisions with wind turbines, and there is at present no direct method of reducing or preventing this mortality. We therefore determine whether the electromagnetic radiation associated with radar installations can elicit an aversive behavioural response in foraging bats. Four civil air traffic control (ATC) radar stations, three military ATC radars and three weather radars were selected, each surrounded by heterogeneous habitat. Three sampling points matched for habitat type and structure, dominant vegetation species, altitude and surrounding land class were located at increasing distances from each station. A portable electromagnetic field meter measured the field strength of the radar at three distances from the source: in close proximity (<200 m) with a high electromagnetic field (EMF) strength >2 volts/metre, an intermediate point within line of sight of the radar (200-400 m) and with an EMF strength <2 v/m, and a control site out of sight of the radar (>400 m) and registering an EMF of zero v/m. At each radar station bat activity was recorded three times with three independent sampling points monitored on each occasion, resulting in a total of 90 samples, 30 of which were obtained within each field strength category. At these sampling points, bat activity was recorded using an automatic bat recording station, operated from sunset to sunrise. Bat activity was significantly reduced in habitats exposed to an EMF strength of greater than 2 v/m when compared to matched sites registering EMF levels of zero. The reduction in bat activity was not significantly different at lower levels of EMF strength within 400 m of the radar. We predict that the reduction in bat activity within habitats exposed to electromagnetic radiation may be a result of thermal induction and an increased risk of hyperthermia.
Background and Objective: Electromagnetic fields coming from electric and electronic devices, mobile telephony antennas, or electrical installations are continuously growing and are in direct relation with population growth. In that sense, the purpose of this investigation was to determine what are the effects of artificial electromagnetic fields on the behavior and viability of bees through a global perspective (1968-2022). Materials and Methods: The methodology used in this research consisted of the review of literature obtained from platforms such as Scopus, EBSCO, IEEE, Wiley, Google Scholar and Taylor & Francis. Results: It was possible to review 36 studies on the field and to state that investigations on this topic have increased in 2019, at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.86% (in a period of 54 years). Poland and USA are the leading countries in the number and importance of investigations on this topic. Keywords were grouped on the basis of the advancement of the research (honeybee, animals, Apis mellifera and apoideos). Conclusion: The study of the effects of electromagnetic fields on bees makes it possible to understand its impact on the metabolism and viability of bees.
The first paper dealing with the effects of extremely low frequency (ELF) electric fields on living matter was probably that published in 1941, by Gengerelli and Holter[l], on the influence of alternating fields on nervous stimulation. And then, after a complete lack of information for about 20 years, the proliferation of ELF research was spurred on by the US Navy’s Sanguine/Seafarer communications program in the late 1960s. At the same time, but contrary to the US Navy’s report, Asanova and Rakov in the USSR published a very alarming paper[2], claiming the harmful effects of electric fields of up to 10 kV/m on exposed workers. From that time on the amount of world wide research has grown exponentially as a consequence of construction of overhead transmission lines of 1 million volts (1000 kV) and higher. These ultra high voltage (UHV) systems produce an unperturbed electric field (EE) at ground level on the order of 10–15 kV/m, depending on the clearance from ground to overhead lines[3]. These values are approximately twice the actual values (4–6 kV/m) beneath the Italian 420 kV transmission system and roughly the same as the values detected near substations[4,5].
The influence of weak electromagnetic radiation on simple forms of behavior was studied on the model of the motor behavior of the imago grain beetle (Tenebrio molitor). Positive (feeding) and negative (illumination) motivations were created in the same experimental conditions. Beetles in a Petri dish were put to the starting point of a special container. The goal (a peace of potato or a box protected from light) was in the other fixed point of the container. Time of the goal reaching by groups of beetles was recorded in one daily trial in the course of five consecutive days. Under conditions of both motivations, behavioral phases such as orienting reaction and environmental adaptation were observed. Exposure to weak electromagnetic radiation resulted in an increase in the reaction time at the initial stage of the experiment. The effect was of a seasonal character and varied depending on the behavioral form.
Because of the huge request for electricity in the modern life, the transmission line networks have been extended for a long distances through countries. So, some farms can be under the transmission line networks. The aim of this research is to investigate the influence of exposure to magnetic fields of (400KV) on growth of green maize. The magnetic field simulation of 400KV high voltage transmission line has been conducted in laboratory by a circuit which provides a simulated magnetic field strength of (0.08mT) needed for testing. Investigation have been conducted on three identical maize plant groups, the first group (p1) is insert far away from the magnetic field while groups (p2,p3) are insert under the influence of magnetic fields of 0.045mT and 0.084mT respectively. Research is carried out in mathematical calculations and practical measurements. Investigatition is focused on the area of leaf and dry leaf weight. The measurements have been conducted in two times (after 10 days) and (after 20 days of exposure). Results show that the maize growth has negative respond to magnetic field. This is proven by a depression in maize growth due to exposure to magnetic field. This depression depends on the strength of the magnetic field.
1. A Very Serious Warning 36 Years Ago "The electromagnetic radiations emanating for radar, television, communications systems, microwave ovens, industrial heat-treatment systems, medical diathermy units, and many other sources permeate the modern environment, both civilian and military." "Unless adequate monitoring and control based on a fundamental understanding of biological effects are instituted in the near future, in the decades ahead, man may enter an era of energy pollution of the environment comparable to the chemical pollution of today." "The consequences of undervaluing or misjudging the biological effects of long-term, low-level exposure could become a critical problem for the public health, especially if genetic effects are involved." These quotations are excerpts from the US government report "Program for Control of Electromagnetic Pollution of the Environment", which was published in December 1971. The government report was drafted starting in December 1968 by an expert group made up of nine people, "The Electromagnetic Radiation Management Advisory Council". "The President's Office of Telecommunications Policy" issued the order. This report was an urgent warning for the future. 2. Today (2007): Ignoring This Warning and Irresponsible Deception About 36 years have passed since the publishing of this report. Unfortunately, this urgent warning, which is scientifically well-founded, is currently not taken seriously. The beauty of landscapes and cities are spoiled with "forests of radiant radio antennas" in order to serve a new addiction of people: telecommunication. From this unethical, environment-disfiguring antenna forest, people are continuously bombarded by invisible, imperceptible, health-damaging, stressing, high-frequency, electromagnetic radiations. As predicted 36 years ago in the US government report, our planet today is more "contaminated" by "electronic smog" than with the chemistry that already heavily strains people. Those responsible have unfortunately still not considered a possible double strain of these two harmful factors. The telecommunications and microwave industry even contends that these high-frequency electromagnetic radiations are not harmful for people's health. That is irresponsible deception. Facts support the opposite.
Thermography of honeybee colonies in winter influenced by high-voltage electric fields Honeybee colonies in winter exposed to 50 Hz electric fields at 400 Veff/m and 15 min application show abnormal reaction.
Winterbienen zeigen abnorme Reaktion auf elektrische Feldstärken bei 50 Hz von 400 Veff/m und mindestens 15 min Applikation.
Number of circulating hemocytes and hemolymph protein patterns of adult worker honey bees were analyzed as possible indicators of stress resulting from colony placement under a 765-kV transmission line. Although exposure to 55, 80, and 95 μA total induced hive current (THC) produced colony behavioral disturbance, there were no consistent effects on mean hemocyte counts at 55- or 95-μA THC. Age-dependent declines in circulating hemocyte number were similar in all exposure groups. There were no consistent differences in tube-gel electropherograms. No consistent differences were found in two-density slab-gel electropherograms based on ultrasensitive silver stain. The 67 positively charged and four negatively charged protein fractions from overwintering bees are two- to threefold more than currently reported in the literature.
An overview of the literature suggests tha electric-field exposure is an environmental agent/influence of relatively low potential toxicity to biological systems. Generally, many of the biological effects which have been reported are quite subtle and differences between exposed and unexposed subjects may be masked by normal biological variations. However, several recent reports indicate possibly more serious consequences from chronic exposure, emphasizing the need for more research in epidemiology and laboratory experiments. This paper presents a cursory overview of investigations on the biological consequences of exposure to ELF electromagnetic fields. Three important topics are discussed, including: 1) the general methodology of exposure experiments, including those elements which are critical for definitive studies in biological systems; 2) a brief discussion of epidemiological and clinical studies conducted to date; and 3) a somewhat more extensive examination of animal experiments representing major areas of investigation (behavior, biological rhythms, nervous and endocrine systems, bone growth and repair, cardiovascular system and blood chemistry, immunology, reproduction, growth and development mortality and pathology, cellular and membrane studies, and mutagenesis). A discussion of current concepts, possible mechanisms and future directions of research is presented. 110 references.
The effect of power-frequency electric fields on invertebrate movement and behavior was studied. Data was obtained in the vicinity of an operating 500-kV powerline, and from underneath a simulated powerline (where the electric field could be controlled). Electric fields greater than 8-10 kV/m affected the behavior of flying insects; small insects could not fly, and large insects avoided the high-field region. Electric fields lowered both the activity of mosquitoes (to attack the host) and insect flower attendance. The prevalence of most non-flying insect species was not altered by the electric field, probably because of screening of the electric fields by vegetation and the ability of the insects to migrate. The existing Soviet safety standards for high-voltage powerlines seem sufficient to protect invertebrates.
This work explores mechanisms for disturbance of honey bee colonies under a 765 kV, 60-Hz transmission line [electric (E) field = 7 kV/m] observed in previous studies. Proposed mechanisms fell into two categories: direct bee perception of enhanced in-hive E fields and perception of shock from induced currents. The adverse biological effects could be reproduced in simulations where only the worker bees were exposed to shock or to E field in elongated hive entranceways (=tunnels). We now report the results of full-scale experiments using the tunnel exposure scheme, which assesses the contribution of shock and intense E field to colony disturbance. Exposure of worker bees (1,400 h) to 60-Hz E fields including 100 kV/m under moisture-free conditions within a nonconductive tunnel causes no deleterious affect on colony behavior. Exposure of bees in conductive (e.g., wet) tunnels produces bee disturbance, increased mortality, abnormal propolization, and possible impairment of colony growth. We propose that this substrate dependence of bee disturbance is the result of perception of shock from coupled body currents and enhanced current densities postulated to exist in the legs and thorax of bees on conductors. Similarly, disturbance occurs when bees are exposed to step-potential-induced currents. At 275–350 nA single bees are disturbed; at 600 nA bees begin abnormal propolization behavior; and stinging occurs at 900 nA. We conclude that biological effects seen in bee colonies under a transmission line are primarily the result of electric shock from induced hive currents. This evaluation is based on the limited effects of E-field exposure in tunnels, the observed disturbance thresholds caused by shocks in tunnels, and the ability of hives exposed under a transmission line to source currents 100–1,000 times the shock thresholds.
Mechanisms to explain disturbance of honey bee colonies under a 765-kV, 60-Hz transmission line [electric (E) field = 7 kV/m] fall into two categories: direct bee perception of enhanced in-hive E fields, and perception of shock from induced currents. The same adverse biological effects previously observed in honey bee colonies exposed under a 765-kV transmission line can be reproduced by exposing worker bees to shock or E field within elongated hive entranceways (=tunnels). Exposure to intense E field caused disturbance only if bees were in contact with a conductive substrate. E-field and shock exposure can be separated and precisely defined within tunnels, eliminating dosimetric vagaries that occur when entire hives are exposed to E field.
Bees exposed to 60-Hz electric (E) fields > 150 kV/m show field-induced vibrations of wings, antennae, and body hairs. They also show altered behavior if exposed while in contact with a conductive substrate. Measurements indicate that approximately 240 nA is coupled to a bee standing on a conductive substrate in a 100-kV/m E field. In lab experiments, bee disturbance and sting result from exposure to E field >200 kV/m (bee current >480 nA) and reduced voluntary movements at >300 kV/m (>720 nA bee current) only if the bee is on a conductive substrate. It is hypothesized that in the latter situation coupled bee current drains through the lower thorax and legs to the conductive substrate, and that the resulting enhanced current density in these regions is the cause of observed responses. The observation that bees exposed to intense E fields on an insulator show vibration of body parts but no behavioral response suggests that vibration contributes little to the disturbance of bees in intense E fields.
Lab measurements of bee impedance from front-to-rear leg pairs were made on wet and dry conductors. Measurements validate the selection of 1 MΩ as a middle value for bee impedance used in the design of devices used to generate step-potential-induced currents in bees.
Increase in the usage of electronic gadgets has led to electropollution of the environment. Honeybee behaviour and biology has been affected by electrosmog since these insects have magnetite in their bodies
which helps them in navigation. There are reports of sudden disappearance of bee populations from honeybee colonies. The reason is still not clear. We have compared the performance of honeybees in cellphone radiation exposed and unexposed colonies. A significant (p < 0.05) decline in colony strength and in the egg laying rate of the queen was observed. The behaviour of exposed foragers was negatively influenced by the exposure, there was neither honey nor pollen in the colony at the end of the experiment.
The effects of weak electromagnetic irradiation on simple forms of behavior were studied using adult Tenebrio molitor mealworms. The beetles' motor behavior was studied in conditions of different motivations, i.e., positive (food) and negative (avoidance of light), in otherwise identical experimental conditions. The beetles had to navigate a defined space to reach their target - potato or cover from light. Experiments consisted of one trial per day for five days. Target attainment time was measured in groups of beetles. Behavior in both cases developed as follows: an initial orientation reaction appeared and was followed by adaptation to the apparatus. Exposure to weak electromagnetic irradiation led to increases in the response time at the initial stages of the experiments. The effects of irradiation were seasonal in nature and differed in the two types of behavior.
Wild birds, particularly raptors, commonly use electrical transmission structures for nesting, perching, hunting, and roosting. Consequently, birds are exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMFs). The amount of time that wild reproducing American kestrels (Falco sparverius) were exposed to EMFs was determined, and the effects of EMFs on the behavior of captive reproducing kestrels were examined. Wild kestrels were exposed to EMFs for 25% to 75% of the observed time. On a 24-h basis, estimated EMF exposure of wild kestrels ranged from 71% during courtship, to 90% during incubation, similar to that experienced by captive kestrels (88% of a 24-h period). Additionally, captive kestrels were exposed to EMF levels experienced by wild kestrels nesting under 735-kV power lines. Captive EMF females were more active, more alert, and perched on the pen roof more frequently than control females during courtship. EMF females preened and rested less often during brood rearing. EMF male kestrels were more active than control males during courtship, and more alert during incubation. Increased activity of kestrels during courtship may be linked to changes in corticosterone, but likely not melatonin. Observed behavioral changes were unlikely to directly result in the better growth of nestlings and fledging success, or poorer hatching success, of the EMF group, as previously reported. Behavioral changes of captive EMF kestrels may be observed in wild kestrels.
Electrical power lines are ubiquitous in the developed world and in urban areas of the developing world. All electrical currents, including those running through power lines, generate electric and magnetic fields (EMFs). Electrical power lines, towers,and distribution poles are used by birds for perching, hunting, and nesting. Therefore, many bird species, like humans, are exposed to EMFs throughout their lives. EMFs have been implicated in adversely affecting multiple facets of human health,including increasing the risks of life-threatening illnesses such as leukemia, brain cancer, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, clinical depression, suicide, and Alzheimer's disease. A great deal of research and controversy exists as to whether or not exposure to EMFs affects the cellular, endocrine, immune, and reproductive systems of vertebrates. Laboratory work has used mice, rats, and chickens as models for this EMF research in an effort to understand better the possible implications of EMF exposure for humans. However, EMF exposure of wild birds may also provide insight into the impacts of EMFs on human health. This review focuses on research examining the effects of EMFs on birds; most studies indicate that EMF exposure of birds generally changes, but not always consistently in effect or in direction, their behavior, reproductive success, growth and development, physiology and endocrinology, and oxidative stress under EMF conditions. Some of this work has involved birds under aviary conditions, while other research has focused on free-ranging birds exposed to EMFs. Finally, a number of future research directions are discussed that may help to provide a better understanding of EMF effects on vertebrate health and conservation.
Honey bee colonies under a 765-kV power line (electric field [E-field[ 7 kV/m) showed effects, with hive height and weather-influenced hive current distribution the controlling factors. Hive current was a mean of 59 μA(= 1 m hive height) or 85 μA (1.5 m). Shielded controls under the line had E-fields and hive currents 150- to 300- fold and 100-fold lower, respectively, than exposed hives. Groups were exposed or shielded 8 or 16 weeks, with treatment reversal for some at week 8. A 16-week exposure did not affect percent honey moisture or teneral adult weight. When first exposed, colonies exhibited pronounced but transient elevations in temperature. Capped brood was normal in exposed 1-m hives but declined (P<0.01) in 1.5-m hives by week 4, associated with higher incidence of queen loss and queen cells and colony failure. Weight gain was depressed in all exposed hives after 2 weeks, being severe in 1.5-m hives (P<0.001 at week 5) and intermediate in 1-m hives (P = 0.05 at week 8). Effects were more pronounced the first 8 weeks than the last 8. Painted hive interiors reduced bio-effects, presumably by reducing internal current flow. Only exposed colonies propolized hive entrances, but amount and time of onset were not dose related. Treatment reversal at midseason resulted in reversal of colony behavior, manifested more with hive weight than brood. Overwinter survival of exposed groups was ≤29% compared with ≥71% among shielded ones.
Metabolism of bees (Apis mellifica L.) in 50 Hz high-tension field
Bees in 50 Hz high-voltage AC-field show an increase of the metabolism rate following an increase of motor activity. Caged beegroups under weak field strength (lower than approx. 10 KV/m) show differing metabolic rates. By medium field strength (approx. 20 KV/m-40 KV/m) the metabolic rate increases relative to the field strength. By high field strength (over approx. 50 KV/m) the bees are cause to sting one another.
Bienen im 50-Hz-Hochspannungsfeld zeigen einen erhöhten Stoffwechsel infolge gesteigerter motorischer Aktivität. Bei geringen Feldstärken (unter ca. 10 KV/m) ist die Stoffwechselerhöhung bei verschiedenen gekäfigten Bienengruppen nicht einheitlich. Bei mittleren Feldstärken (ca. 20 KV/m-40 KV/m) ist die Stoffwechselerhöhung mit der Feldstärke korreliert. Bei hohen Feldstärken (über ca. 50 KV/m) erfolgt gegenseitiges Abstechen.
Biological Effects of Electric Fields-General Support Studies. Final report on IITRI project E8250
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The Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lmes on Honey-Sokal RR
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Greenberg, B, Kunich JC, Bindokas VP (1978): The Effects of High Voltage Transmission Lmes on Honey-Sokal RR, Rohlf FJ (1969): Biometry. W. H. Freeman, San Francisco, California, 776 pp.
Biological Effects of Electric Fields—General Support Studies
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Certain reactions in honey bees to the flow of electric current of different parameters
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Chicago; EPRI project RP934-1 Electric Power Research Institute
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Response of Honeybees Apis melliferaL. to High Voltage Transmission Lines
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