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<dd><font size=2>Hardman, C. J., et al. (2016). "Delivery of floral
resources and pollination services on farmland under three different
wildlife-friendly schemes." <u>Agriculture, Ecosystems &
Environment</u> <b>220</b>: 142-151.<br><br>
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Management that enhances floral resources can be an effective way to
support pollinators and pollination services. Some wildlife-friendly
farming schemes aim to enhance the density and diversity of floral
resources in non-crop habitats on farms, whilst managing crop fields
intensively. Others, such as organic farming, aim to support ecological
processes within both crop and non-crop habitats. How effective these
different approaches are for supporting pollination services at the farm
scale is unknown. We compared organic farming with two non-organic
wildlife-friendly farming schemes: one prescriptive (Conservation Grade,
CG) and one flexible (Entry Level Stewardship, ELS), and sampled a
representative selection of crop and non-crop habitats. We investigated
the spatial distribution and overall level of: (i) flower density and
diversity, (ii) pollinator density and diversity and (iii) pollination
services provided to Californian poppy (Eschscholzia californica) potted
phytometer plants. Organic crop habitats supported a higher density of
flowers, insect-wildflower visits, and fruit set of phytometers than CG
or ELS crop habitats. Non-crop habitats supported a higher density of
flowers and insect-flower visits than crop habitats on CG and ELS farms.
Pollination services were higher on organic farms overall compared to CG
or ELS. Pollinator diversity and density did not differ between schemes,
at the point or farm level. CG farms received the highest total number of
insect-wildflower visits. The findings support organic farming practices
that increase floral resources in crop habitats, such as sowing clover or
reduced herbicide usage, as mechanisms to enhance pollination services.
However trade-offs with other ecosystem services are likely and these are
discussed. The findings support the CG scheme as a way of supporting
pollinators within farms where high wheat yields are required.<br><br>
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