Metal pollutants have additive negative effects on honey bee cognition

Environmental pollutants can exert sublethal deleterious effects on animals. These include disruption of cognitive functions underlying crucial behaviours. While agrochemicals have been identified as a major threat to pollinators, metal pollutants, which are often found in complex mixtures, so far overlooked. Here we assessed the impact acute exposure field-realistic concentrations three common lead, copper, arsenic, and their combinations, honey bee appetitive learning memory. All treatments involving single metals slowed down disrupted memory retrieval at 24 h. Combinations these had additive negative both processes, suggesting pathways toxicity. Our results highlight need further assess risks pollution invertebrates.