While some people fear bees, they should instead fear a world without them.
For at least the past two years, bee populations have rapidly declined, and researchers are doing their best to better understand Colony Collapse Disorder - the abrupt disappearance of bees.
Jamie Ellis, UF assistant professor of entomology, said people have recently begun to notice the declines in bee populations.
"It's simply colonies dying: millions and millions and millions of bees," Ellis said.
There is still no certain cause of the rapid decrease of bee colonies, but researchers have established theories to explain it.
Some hypotheses include traditional diseases, environmental stresses, management stress and poor nutrition.
"It's easiest to believe that it's a cumulative effect," Ellis said. "There are so many things that kill bees. There are almost infinite possibilities at this point."
Because of the great decrease in bee colonies, American agriculture could be severely affected.
"Without honeybees, we lose our citrus," said Jerry Hayes, apiary inspection assistant chief of Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
It is estimated that one-third of the world's food production depends on pollinators such as honeybees.
"If you care where food comes from, we have to protect our pollinators," Hayes said.
Colony Collapse Disorder originated in Florida, and certain species of bees are nearing extinction.
The disorder is unique because the bees do not return to their colonies, and there are no carcasses left around the hives.
There are three ways to help stop the honeybee population from declining, Ellis said.
Researchers in different specialties can work together to help find a cause.
Additionally, beekeepers can amend their practices to alleviate stress and help bees receive a well-balanced diet.
The general public can also get involved by reducing chemical use in gardens and by supporting apiary research, Ellis said.
