Facilitating Novice Recovery of <i>Bombus</i> (Latreille) Reproductive Systems

ABSTRACT As essential pollinators to native plant species, Bombus (Latreille) are integral components of terrestrial ecosystems. Canada is home to approximately 41 native bumblebee species, 24.4% of which are threatened with extinction globally. In cases of extreme population decline, ex situ conservation, including conservation breeding and reintroduction, has been recommended and is being implemented to assist in species recovery. To date, Bombus breeding efforts have low mating success. Adapting assisted reproduction techniques from apiculture could increase mating success in captive breeding programmes and support controlled breeding to enhance genetic diversity. To this end, we investigated a new dissection technique for male Bombus species, in which reproductive organs are removed from the abdomen through the cloaca. We found that the pull dissection methodology was more effective at reliable sample collection than dissections performed via the classic methodology (probability of finding sperm in accessory ducts for the classic method = 2.5%, [CI = 0.23%, 14%]; probability of finding sperm in accessory ducts for the pull method = 58%, [CI = 43%, 73%]). By circumventing the need to manipulate the digestive system, this method simplifies the dissection process, increasing the chances of success for novices.