Abstract:  Neonicotinoid insecticides (neonicotinoids) are now the most widely used insecticides in the world. Acting systemically, they are taken by plants and then translocated to all tissues through vessel transportation. And they bind with high affinity to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) of insects, leading to neurotoxic effects. Honeybees are the most important pollinators worldwide with high economic and ecological value. Over the past few years, however, a global decline of pollinators, mainly honeybees, has caused great concern. Though the real reasons were unclear, the influences of neonicotinoids have been widely recognized. In this article, we reviewed the recent research on neonicotinoids and their lethal and sublethal impacts on honeybees. The policies of some countries and regions were also introduced. By summarizing the studies on the impacts of the neonicotinoids on honeybee health, we aimed to provide some references for further study in relevant areas in China.

Key words: Honeybee, neonicotinoids, honeybee health, lethal toxicity, sublethal effect, neurotoxicity, eco safety