New visitors in Bavaria: The Tonerdhummel finds home

New visitors in Bavaria: The Tonerdhummel finds home

Stand: 13.08.2024, 08:03 am

by: Ines alms

climate change and its effects on biodiversity

The discovery of the tonerdhummel (Bombus argillaceus) in Bavaria is not only a remarkable zoological finding, but could also be an indicator of the effects of climate change on the fauna in Germany. This heat -loving bumblebee, which typically occurs in warmer regions such as the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, indicates that animals may adapt to new habitats due to increasing temperatures.

The commitment of the community for nature conservation

In the course of the so-called Hummel Challenge, nature lovers were actively encouraged to photograph and report bumblebees. This project is borne by the Thünen Institute, the Bund Nature Conservation in Bavaria (BN) and the platform observation.org. The initiative aims to raise awareness of the diversity of wild bees and their habitats. Such community actions are crucial to better understand and protect the existence of these important pollinators.

flowering plants as a habitat for the tonerdhummel

In order to lure the tonerdhummel into your own garden, it is important to provide suitable nectar plants. The short trunk of this wild bee makes a selection of plants necessary to attract them. Representatives of the lip blossom and butterfly flower family are particularly suitable. Here are some plants that appeal to the toner dumplings:

• Klee
• arable beans
• Wick
• legwell
• Leinkraut
• Hohlzahn
• Heart spanned
• black nettles

The habitat of the Tonerdhummel

The tonerdhummel can be seen particularly on their two striking yellow stripes on the thorax. It preferably lives in underground nests, which are built in the corridors of shear mice and offer space for up to 600 animals. After this species has already been sighted in neighboring countries such as Austria and Switzerland, their discovery in Bavaria could indicate that it could establish itself here, especially in view of the changed climatic conditions.

Conclusion: A sign of future changes

The viewing of the tonerdhummel in Bavaria could be the beginning of a trend that could mean that species are increasingly adapting to the warmer climate conditions. Dr. Sophie Ogan from the Thünen Institute emphasizes that the Alps represent a natural barrier for many species. Their potential permanent immigration could therefore be closely linked to the changes caused by climate change. It remains to be seen how these developments will affect biodiversity in the region.