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Project title

Assessing the impact of changing climate on clover-pollinator interactions in Irish grasslands.

Primary Funding Agency

DAFM

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Lead Organisation

University College Cork

Lead Applicant

Not listed

Project Abstract

Climate change is increasing the severity of extreme events (high temperatures, drought, flooding) and impacting two components of ecosystems: flowering plants and their pollinators. Higher temperatures and frequent dry spells affect insect physiology, phenology, and geographical distribution, increasing the probability of mismatches between pollinating insects and the flower population. Drought periods also influence overall flower development, leading to fewer flowers producing less pollen and most of it non-viable. This abiotic stress can affect over 70% of wild flowering plants, their pollinators, and 75% of agricultural crops. Most studies have focused on arid regions and wind-pollinated species, therefore there�s a knowledge gap in temperate climates. In Ireland, clover inclusion in grass swards is encouraged by several government policies aiming to increase agriculture�s sustainability while reducing farmers� costs and their reliance on chemical fertilizers. However, the function of clover species beyond Nitrogen fixation is mostly unknown, specifically their role as promoters of pollinator biodiversity in an agricultural context. In this two-year project we will investigate the phenology (flowering time) and pollen development (viability and quantity) of red and white clover in mixed-species grass swards, across a range of Irish locations with distinct climate variables (e.g., soil water content, temperature, rainfall). In parallel, we will assess the diversity and activity of insect pollinators in these mixed swards and in their adjacent habitats. The abiotic and biotic data collected will lead to a mathematical model identifying the dominant drivers controlling clover flowering and associated pollinator diversity and activity, which will be further tested in controlled glasshouse experiments mimicking field conditions. Our findings will result in: i) identification of clover/pollinator interactions in an agricultural context; ii) data on the resilience of clover in varying climates and its impact on clover pollinators, and iii) identification of abiotic drivers (e.g., temperature, water availability) of clover/pollinator interactions.

Grant Approved

�294,295.00

Research Hub

Climate Change

Research Theme

1. Carbon Stocks, GHG Emissions, Sinks and Management Options

Start Date

01/04/2024

Initial Projected Completion Date

31/03/2026