Title : Effects of temperature and humidity on pollinator activity in drylands
Abstract:
Pollinator activity in dryland ecosystems is strongly influenced by microclimatic factors, particularly temperature and relative humidity. This study assessed the relationship between these variables and pollinator visitation rates in a semi-arid dryland environment over a six-week period. Temperature and humidity were recorded alongside pollinator abundance and foraging frequency on selected flowering plants. Results showed that pollinator activity peaked between 28–34 °C and declined sharply above 38 °C. Relative humidity between 25–40% enhanced foraging activity, while humidity below 20% suppressed visitation. The study concludes that climatic fluctuations typical of drylands significantly regulate pollinator behaviour and plant–pollinator interactions. Recommendations are provided for dryland biodiversity conservation and crop pollination management.
Keywords: Dryland, climate, humidity, pollinators, temperature
