By Tara Dirilgen & Jim Carolan, Maynooth University
This year the Irish Pollinator Research Network (IPRN) returned to Maynooth University for a second time (the first was in 2020) and was hosted by Dr Jim Carolan and Dr Tara Dirilgen. Launched in 2017, the IPRN is an open network of pollinator researchers committed to conducting pollinator research and build the evidence base required to conserve and manage our beleaguered pollinator populations across Ireland. Although primarily focussed on pollinating insect species, the network is open to members that conduct research on any aspect of pollinator biology and ecology.
In total, 13 researchers representing seven institutions presented their work on topics including solitary bee hotels, farmers sentiments to conservation, cryptic bumblebees, pesticides impacts, changing habitats, non-lethal sampling, honeybee health and genomics and the importance of hedgerows (download programme below). The presentations were given by PhD candidates and PIs, and as with previous years, it seems that pollinator research is booming and in a great place.
Updates were also provided by Dr Saorla Kavanagh on several Teagasc biodiversity projects that are planned and Dr Sarah Larragy on the first year of the EU funded RestPoll project, a European-wide initiative aiming to restore pollinator habitats and enhance their connectivity. Dr Michelle Larkin from the National Biodiversity Data Centre presented on the Irish Pollinator Monitoring scheme which plans to track pollinator numbers and species and their distributions across different habitats (including farmlands) and geographical regions in Ireland. Such projects are essential for us to understanding the decline in pollinator numbers and diversity but also the causes and consequences of these declines.
Delegates enjoyed a lovely lunch in Pugin Hall and a quick visit to stretch the legs to the Junior Garden. Despite the lack of life (plants and pollinators) given the time of the year, we were happy to stretch our legs, breath some fresh air and show off the great biodiversity management and initiatives of Maynooth Green Campus. Everyone was forgiven for the delayed start to the afternoon session, but as it turned out energy and rested minds were required.
As in past years the end of the meeting is dedicated to an open discussion regarding the future and function of the IPRN. Since it’s establishment the IPRN has had strong links with the NBDC and particularly through the collation of research actions as part of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan. Indeed, much of the research conducted by IPRN members has directly contributed to the actions and monitoring of AIPP. The session was directed by Professor Jane Stout (VP for Biodiversity and Climate Action at TCD, and Deputy Chair of the AIPP Steering Group) who presented plans for the AIPP Phase III (2025-2030). In a slight departure to previous phases, new approaches to translating and disseminating research findings and widening involvement in pollinator data acquisition and monitoring were proposed and supported. In addition, new collaborative approaches were agreed where IPRN members have committed to share equipment, knowledge and even samples so that we can improve integration among Irish pollinator researchers and support those new to the group.
Looking forward to next year’s IPRN at UCD.
To find out more about past IPRN meetings, see other blog posts on Campus Buzz. Current IPRN PIs include:
Una Fitzpatrick, National Biodiversity Data Centre
About the author(s): Jim Carolan and Tara Dirilgen are both research group leaders at the Department of Biology, Maynooth University.
Campus Buzz 