Trees

Trees are the cornerstone of ecological stability, serving as primary producers that support entire ecosystems. Their role extends far beyond carbon sequestration and oxygen production; they are fundamental to sustaining biodiversity, particularly for pollinators such as bees. By providing nectar and pollen, trees act as a continuous food source for bees, ensuring their survival throughout the year. Species like the Corteza Amarilla (Tabebuia ochracea), Guarumo (Cecropia spp.), and Espavel (Anacardium excelsum) are essential in Costa Rica, offering seasonal blooms that align with bee foraging patterns. Additionally, tree canopies create microclimates that regulate temperature and humidity, mitigating the effects of extreme weather conditions that can threaten bee populations. Without trees, the intricate balance between pollinators and plant life collapses, leading to a decline in both food security and biodiversity.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Beyond nourishment, trees provide bees with essential nesting habitats, particularly for species that rely on natural hollows, such as stingless Melipona bees. Old-growth trees, fallen logs, and dense underbrush serve as sanctuaries where colonies can thrive, protected from predators and environmental stressors. Deforestation, however, disrupts these habitats, forcing bees to relocate or perish, ultimately leading to population declines that ripple through agricultural and wild ecosystems alike. The loss of trees not only reduces available forage but also increases pesticide and pollutant exposure, further exacerbating threats to bee populations. Conservation efforts must prioritize reforestation and the protection of native tree species to maintain healthy bee populations. A decline in bees means a decline in pollination, directly impacting food production and the stability of ecosystems worldwide.