Evolutionarily inspired solutions to the crop pollination crisis. (May 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van der Niet, Timotheüs; Egan, Paul A.; Schlüter, Philipp M.
• Is Part Of: Trends in ecology & evolution. Volume 38:Number 5(2023)
• Page Start: 435
• Page End: 445
• Publication Date: 2023-05
• Subjects: adaptation -- floral traits -- genetic engineering -- pollinator distribution; Ecology -- Periodicals; Evolution (Biology) -- Periodicals; 576.8
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2022.12.010
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0169-5347

Abstract

Highlights: Crop plants do not always reproduce at their full potential, which provides opportunities to increase crop yield through improved pollination services. Wild pollinator species make an important contribution to crop pollination and their distribution across the globe is uneven, creating a geographical template for adapting crop flowers to local pollinator assemblages, analogous to common evolutionary processes in wild plants. Flowers that attract many pollinator species are most resilient to pollinator failure and, therefore, such generalists are suitable models for modifying crop flowers. Using advances in genetic engineering and precision breeding in crop flowers to locally optimize pollination services and ultimately crop yield provides a novel solution for the pollination crisis that is complementary to focusing on safeguarding pollinator health. Abstract: The global decline in insect diversity threatens pollination services, potentially impacting crop production and food security. Here, we argue that this looming pollination crisis is generally approached from an ecological standpoint, and that consideration of evolutionary principles offers a novel perspective. First, we outline that wild plant species have overcome 'pollination crises' throughout evolutionary history, and show how associated principles can be applied to crop pollination. We then highlight technological advances that can be used to adapt crop flowers for optimal pollination by local wild pollinators, especially by increasing generalization in pollination systems. Thus, synergies among fundamental evolutionary research, genetic engineering, and agro-ecological science provide a promising template for addressing a potential pollination crisis, complementing much-needed strategies focused on pollinator conservation.