Native Bee Habitat Restoration- Key Ecological Considerations from Recent Literature

Abstract

Habitat loss is a primary driver of global biodiversity decline, negatively impacting many species. Nevertheless, one approach to counteract the consequences of habitat loss is ecological restoration. Ecological restoration includes the transformation of degraded or damaged habitats to benefit threatened species, including native bees. In this review, we survey the ecological, biological, and conservation literature with the aim of consolidating current research for practical use in bee habitat restoration efforts. We delineate essential steps and applicable tools throughout the various stages of habitat restoration projects, categorizing them into pre-, during-, and postrestoration stages. We emphasize the importance of planning species and site-specific strategies to support bees, including providing floral and non-floral resources and increasing nest site availability. Lastly, we underscore the significance of conducting evaluations and long-term monitoring following restoration efforts. Through the identification of effective restoration methods, success indicators, and areas for future research, our study presents a comprehensive framework that can guide restoration managers, policymakers, and funding agencies during this urgent time for bee conservation.