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Global bias in pollinator studies: a matter of generalization, accessibility, policies, and money
  • Oksana Skaldina,
  • James Blande
Oksana Skaldina
University of Eastern Finland - Kuopio Campus

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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James Blande
University of Eastern Finland
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Abstract

Pollinators are unquestionably declining, however, current knowledge on the rate of decline is biased in two aspects which are fragmented (West-dominated) geographic scope and narrow (bee-dominated) taxonomic focus of studies. This bias has resulted in an unfortunate imbalance, whereby the most biologically diverse regions are less furnished with diversified data, and diverse pollinator groups are out of scope. We suggest evaluation of four major drivers of this bias – (i) concept generalization, (ii) data accessibility, (iii) scattered environmental regulations, and (iv) shifted infrastructure and funding resources. We argue that the complex interplay between these drivers has created a bias in knowledge that needs addressing. Using search engines in different languages and closer cooperation between developed and developing countries may help to overcome geographic bias in pollinator studies. The direction of research toward pollinator diversity and involvement of scientists in environmental policies can help to reach knowledge balance on the topic.
Submitted to Ecology Letters
30 May 2024Submission Checks Completed
30 May 2024Assigned to Editor
30 May 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
09 Jul 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Major
30 Aug 20241st Revision Received
30 Aug 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
02 Sep 2024Submission Checks Completed
02 Sep 2024Assigned to Editor
12 Sep 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned