Predicting atmospheric cadmium and lead using honeybees as atmospheric heavy metals pollution indicators. Results of a monitoring survey in Northern Italy

This study assessed the ability of honeybees as environmental indicators for atmospheric Lead and Cadmium concentrations through regression analyses. For this purpose, sampling was performed from June to November 2017, in three apiaries Milano, two Lodi Magenta. Heavy metals were detected on bees atomic absorption related respective mean levels, measured by municipal monitoring units during 30 d before collection. The highest values bees, 0.028–0.385 µg g−1, Magenta, a suburban-rural site. showed values, 0.244–0.741 Orti di Via Padova, an urban ex-industrial area retrained horticulture, characterised planted rich biodiversity. Cd Pb significantly (p < .001) affected heavy metal concentration, nearest station .05) beehive site type .05). linear models each site, that better predicted biodiverse sites than poor vegetal biodiversity, probably necessity larger foraging area. highlighted relationship between bee quality hive confirming quantifying “alternative tools” devices pollution level. local-regional aspect study, further studies at scale are needed.