Native Pollinators in Nepal: Their Importance, Threats, and Conservation Needs

Abstract

Native pollinators are declining worldwide due to stressors like agricultural intensification, habitat loss, and climate change. Nepal, an agriculturally dependent country with high reliance on pollinator-dependent crops, faces these same pressures, yet little is known about their impact on local pollinators. This study assesses the conservation status of native pollinators in Nepal and identifies key risks to their populations across regions. We combined a systematic literature review, lead farmer surveys, and secondary data analysis to quantify household pollinator dependency in three districts representing distinct agroclimatic zones. We also evaluated the severity of various risks facing pollinators. Results show habitat loss and climate change as the primary threats nationwide. Pesticide use emerged as a serious concern in lower-altitude areas, where agricultural intensity is high, while climate change posed a greater risk at higher-altitudes due to faster warming. Additional pressures included invasive species, natural enemies, and poor agricultural practices. Mountain communities were most vulnerable, relying heavily on pollinator-dependent crops for food and income. Small-scale farmers were also more vulnerable to pollinator declines than larger-scale producers. Secondary data showed sharp increases in pesticide imports, primary forest loss, and rising temperatures, highlighting growing risks to pollinators in Nepal. Our findings suggest pollinator declines are likely widespread in Nepal, threatening agricultural yields, household income, and nutrition—especially in high-altitude smallholder systems. These results underscore the urgent need for region-specific pollinator conservation strategies to safeguard food security, livelihoods, and biodiversity. This research provides critical insights for stakeholders working on pollinator conservation and sustainable development in Nepal

Keywords: Climate, Decline, Food Security, Habitat, Pesticide, Risks