Pesticides used to help bees may actually harm them

Honeybees from chlorothalanil-treated hives showed the greatest change in gut microbiome, a new study has concluded. The discovery is a concern because alterations can affect the gut's ability to metabolize sugars and peptides, processes that are vital for honeybee health. Beekeepers typically apply pesticides to hives to rid them of harmful parasites such as Varroa mites.