Friday, July 31, 2009

Bees Face Another Killer: Selenium

Toxin Could Affect Multibillion-Dollar Agricultural Industry
By Michael Reilly, Discovery News, 7/29/2009

Selenium, a potent toxin, is showing up in alarming concentrations in the pollen and nectar of two plants common in California's Central Valley, according to a new study.

If the element is finding its way into bee populations, it could affect the region's multi-billion dollar agricultural industry, as well as the nation's food supply.

The rocks, soil and groundwater of California's San Joaquin Valley contain some of the highest natural levels of selenium found anywhere — in some places up to 14 parts per million…

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