Sub-lethal effects of sulfoximine pesticides on bumblebees

Sulfoximine-based pesticides are the most likely successor of neonicotinoids and are licensed for use or under consideration for licensing in several countries worldwide. Harry Siviter and colleagues show that exposure to field-realistic doses of sulfoxaflor, a sulfoximine-based insecticide, has sub-lethal effects on bumblebees; colonies exposed to the pesticide produce significantly fewer workers and male reproductive offspring. The findings caution against the use of sulfoximines as a direct replacement for neonicotinoids.