The research activity focuses on two main research fields.
- Microbial ecology of the gut microbiome of Apoidea such as Apis mellifera, Osmia spp., Xylocopa spp., Megachile spp. and other solitary pollinators of Europe and South America. Specifically, research activities focus on:
- Development of the intestinal microbiota of Apoidea following the exposure to pollutants of anthropogenic origin (antibiotics/xenobiotics) and/or due to climate change.
- The impact of different food additives, including those based on microorganisms, on the microbiota and health of pollinators.
- The impact of mono- and poly-floral pollen on the bee's microbiota and immune system.
- Pathogenic microorganisms (in particular microsporidia of the Nosema and Crithidia genera) disruption of the gut microbiome of pollinators.
- microbial interactions between soil - plant - pollinating insects.
Specifically, research activities focus on:
- The endophytic and rhizospheric microbiota of sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
- Gene expression test on SWEET genes responsible for nectar secretion in the floral system, in relation to the activity of the rhizospheric and endophytic microbiota.
- VOCs analysis for nectar secretion in plants, in relation to the activity of the rhizospheric and endophytic microbiota.
- The microbiota of forest’ soils.
- Modification of the soil microbiota by nectariferous essences
- Transfer of microorganisms from flower nectar to the digestive system of pollinating insects
