Effect on honey bees of nectar from the yellow kowhai (Sophora microphyllaAit.)

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Abstract
Toxicity tests showed that the nectar of the yellow kowhai (Sophora microphylla Ait.) frequently has a narcotic effect on honey bees. Only adult bees are affected. Mortality of narcotised bees may occur, especially if they are exposed to the low temperatures common in the spring. Extracts of S. microphylla seeds are toxic to mice. Narcosis and mortality, resembling that caused by the nectar, result if bees are dosed extracts of seeds and wood. Narcosis and mortality of bees appear due to the alkaloids of S. microphylla reaching the nectaries. Beekeepers should consider resiting apiaries if severe mortality due to kowhai poisoning occurs.

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