EP4250914A1 - Dispositif pédagogique et scientifique d'accueil d'abeilles solitaires afin d'évaluer la qualité de l'environnement - Google Patents

Dispositif pédagogique et scientifique d'accueil d'abeilles solitaires afin d'évaluer la qualité de l'environnement

Info

Publication number
EP4250914A1
EP4250914A1 EP21823268.4A EP21823268A EP4250914A1 EP 4250914 A1 EP4250914 A1 EP 4250914A1 EP 21823268 A EP21823268 A EP 21823268A EP 4250914 A1 EP4250914 A1 EP 4250914A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
holes
nes
bee
nesf
hole
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP21823268.4A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Michaël VAN CUTSEM
Bach Kim NGUYEN
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Beeodiversity
Original Assignee
Beeodiversity
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Beeodiversity filed Critical Beeodiversity
Publication of EP4250914A1 publication Critical patent/EP4250914A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K47/00—Beehives
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; AVICULTURE; APICULTURE; PISCICULTURE; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K55/00—Bee-smokers; Bee-keepers' accessories, e.g. veils

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for solitary bees nesting, a method and system for analysing solitary bees, in particular ⁇ o analyse the qualify of the environment based on the analysis of the solitary bees.
  • honeybees are used ⁇ o produce honey and/or pollen. Solitary bees on the other side have a reduced economic importance compared ⁇ o honeybees and are often neglected. Solitary bees play however an important role in pollination of plants. So, if would be interesting ⁇ o study solitary bees better and ⁇ o help solitary bees ⁇ o reproduce in an environment. Therefore, there exist devices for solitary bee nesting or so-called insect hotels or bee hotels which provide the solitary bees with nest holes.
  • Examples of such insect hotels can be found in US2018/0255748 or US7959486 which provide in a massive wooden structure a plurality of nest holes with equal or different diameters.
  • Such insect hotels might be good ⁇ o provide the solitary bees with nest holes, but they are no ⁇ very convenient ⁇ o study the solitary bees in an environment and their relationship with this environment. Due ⁇ o the massive structure, they are either heavy.
  • US6364738 discloses an insect hotel with a hollow box structure with nes ⁇ holes being realized as tubes extending between the front wall and the back wall. This structure is much lighter than the massive devices for solitary bee nesting described before. However, the device for solitary bee nesting provides only one diameter for the tubes and can thus host only solitary bee species corresponding ⁇ o the one diameter of the tubes.
  • DE29814913 discloses nesting structure for solitary bees with each nes ⁇ hole being removable and having a ⁇ leas ⁇ one transparent wall such ⁇ ha ⁇ the activity in the nes ⁇ hole can be studied.
  • this structure is limited ⁇ o solitary bees having the same diameter as all nes ⁇ holes have the same nes ⁇ hole diameter.
  • I ⁇ is the object of the invention ⁇ o solve the problems of the state of the art, in particular ⁇ o provide an improved device for solitary bee nesting which allows ⁇ o study solitary bees and/or the environment in which the solitary bees live.
  • this object is solved by a method for analysing solitary bees in an environment, preferably their diversify in the environment comprising the following steps: providing a device for solitary bee nesting in the environment, wherein the device for solitary bee nesting comprises a plurality of nest holes, wherein the plurality of nest holes comprise a ⁇ leas ⁇ two different groups of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each group of nes ⁇ holes comprise a plurality of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each nes ⁇ hole of the same group has the same diameter, wherein the nes ⁇ holes of different groups distinguish in their diameter; receiving an occupancy information per group of nes ⁇ holes; and determining a presence information about the presence of different solitary bee species in the environment based on the occupancy information.
  • this object is solved by a device for solitary bee nesting for solitary bees comprising a plurality of nes ⁇ holes, wherein the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprise a ⁇ leas ⁇ two different groups of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each group of nes ⁇ holes comprise a plurality of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each nes ⁇ hole of the same group has the same diameter, wherein the nes ⁇ holes of different groups distinguish in their diameter.
  • the object is further solved by a system comprising a device for solitary bee nesting as described above and a processing means, wherein the processing means is configured ⁇ o: receiving an occupancy information per group of nes ⁇ holes; and determining a presence information about the presence of different solitary bee species in the environment based on the occupancy information.
  • this object is solved by a software comprising a plurality of instructions configured, when executed on the processing means, ⁇ o perform the following steps: receiving an occupancy information per group of nes ⁇ holes of a device for solitary bee nesting, wherein the device for solitary bee nesting comprises a plurality of nes ⁇ holes, wherein the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprise a ⁇ leas ⁇ two different groups of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each group of nes ⁇ holes comprise a plurality of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each nes ⁇ hole of the same group has the same diameter, wherein the nes ⁇ holes of different groups distinguish in their diameter; and determining a presence information about the presence of different solitary bee species in the environment based on the occupancy information.
  • Bee species of different size use different nesf holes of different diameters.
  • the occupancy information per group gives an information about the presence of the bee species of the size corresponding ⁇ o the diameter of the nesf holes of this group.
  • af leas ⁇ n bee species can be distinguished and fheir frequency in the environment can be determined.
  • the present method, system, software and device for solitary bee nesting allows to analyse the presence of different bee species in the environment of the device for solitary bee nesting. This provides a very simple and effective method to detect the presence of different bee species in an environment. This presence information can be used for many purposes like to determine the capacity of the environment to host these solitary bees in terms of feeding.
  • this object is solved by a method for analysing solitary bees in an environment comprising the following steps: providing a device for solitary bee nesting in the environment, wherein the device for solitary bee nesting comprises a plurality of nest holes; waiting until at least one solitary bee has filled at least one nest hole of the plurality of nest holes with eggs and provisions and has closed the filled at least one nest hole with a nest closure; removing at least one of the nest holes which is closed by the nest closure; analysing the content of the at least one removed nest hole; and determining an environment information about the plants (from which the provisions come from) and/or the environmental pollution in the environment based on the analysed content of the at least one removed nest hole.
  • this object is solved by a device for solitary bee nesting comprising a plurality of nest holes, wherein the nest holes of the plurality of nest holes are removable (for analysing the content of the nest hole).
  • the removable nest holes allow to select some of the full nest holes to remove for analysing their content.
  • the remaining full nest holes can be kept in the device for solitary bee nesting so that the new solitary bees can continue their life cycle.
  • Just some nest holes are removed to be analysed. Due the removal of the complete nest hole which already is naturally closed by the solitary bee, the content of the nest hole can easily be brought or sen ⁇ ⁇ o a laboratory foranalysing its content.
  • the method allows to analyse the content of the nest hole which has been collected by the solitary bees from all over the environment around the device for solitary bee nesting.
  • the content of the nest hole is a very representative sample of the environment itself.
  • the analysis result of the content of the nest hole provides thus a reliable information about the plants and the environmental pollution in the environment.
  • the different solitary bees comprise at least one bee species per group, wherein the information about the presence of the at least one solitary bee species per group is determined based on the occupancy information of this group.
  • n bee species can be distinguished.
  • the occupancy information per group of nest holes has been taken at a certain occupancy sample time, wherein the information about the presence of different solitary bee species is determined further based on the occupancy sample time. This allows further to distinguish different bee species nesting in the same group of nest holes 1 but at different time periods of the year.
  • the occupancy information of a group of nest hotels comprises the occupancy state of each nest hole of this group. This information allows to compute all other information needed.
  • the presence information comprises for at least two bee species an information about their presence in the environment.
  • the presence information of the different bee species includes the quantification and/or proportion of nest holes of the different bee species.
  • the different bee species are different groups of bee species, like different bee families. In another embodiment, the different bee species distinguish in specific bee species.
  • a processing means receives the occupancy information per group of nest holes and determines the presence information.
  • the processing means comprises a client means and a server means, wherein the client means receives the occupancy information per group of nest holes, wherein the server means determines the presence information based on the occupancy information received at the client means.
  • the client means comprises a camera, wherein the occupancy information per group of nest holes is received from an image of the plurality of nesf holes captured by the camera of the client means. Preferably, the image shows the entrances of the nesf holes. This allows an automatic detection of the occupancy information of each nest hole of the bee hotel. This reduces human errors and makes the occupancy information determined revisable. In addition, it reduces the work of the user to taking just one image or photo.
  • the processing means comprises an artificial intelligence engine, wherein the artificial intelligence engine analyses the image ⁇ o determine the occupancy information of the nesf holes shown in the image. If was found that the artificial intelligence engine allows ⁇ o determine the occupancy information with a very high certainty and avoids complicated image processing algorithms ⁇ o distinguish occupied nesf holes from non-occupied nesf holes.
  • the processing means generates a plurality of sub-images from the image, wherein each sub-image shows one nesf hole of the bee hotel.
  • This method allows ⁇ o reduce the defection work for each nesf hole ⁇ o more or less the same defection method which is applied on each sub-image.
  • the results must only be associated ⁇ o the respective nesf holes of the bee hotel. This allows than ⁇ o obtain the occupancy information per group (based on the occupancy information of all nesf holes in the respective group).
  • the artificial intelligence engine analyses the image or each sub-image with an image processing algorithm ⁇ o determine the occupancy information of the nesf hole(s) shown in the image or sub-image.
  • the client means comprises a display means, wherein the client means is configured ⁇ o show a real-time image captured by the camera overlayed by a mask, wherein the mask is configured ⁇ o position the camera correctly with respect ⁇ o the nesf holes of the bee hotel for faking the image.
  • the mask can help ⁇ o identify the nesf holes and ⁇ o find the sub-images of the nesf holes.
  • a mask is placed over the image taken with the camera ⁇ o identify the nesf holes in the image and/or ⁇ o divide the image info sub images each comprising one nesf hole.
  • the mask can be shown already before taking the image as explained in the previous paragraph but could also be applied on the image after the image has been taken.
  • the occupancy information of each nest hole is determined based on the colour and/or pattern of the nest hole in the image or sub image.
  • the artificial intelligence engine or the image processing algorithm can be based on the colour and/or pattern of the nest hole in the image or sub-image.
  • a user enters the occupancy information per group of nest holes via a user interface of the client means.
  • a user interface of the client means shows a representation of the arrangement of the nesf holes of the bee hotel and the user selects the occupied nesf holes and/or the non-occupied nesf holes in this representation ⁇ o input the occupancy information for each nesf hole.
  • the image taken with the camera can be shown as the representation of the nesf holes or behind the representation of the nesf holes.
  • the method comprises the step of determining an environment information about the biodiversity and/or the environmental pollution based on the presence information.
  • the method comprises the steps of: analysing the content of a ⁇ leas ⁇ one of the nes ⁇ holes; and determining, based on the analysed content, the presence information and/or the environmental information.
  • the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises preferably four different groups of nes ⁇ holes.
  • the a ⁇ leas ⁇ two groups have two or more different nes ⁇ hole diameters selected each from a different one of the following diameter ranges: a firs ⁇ diameter range smaller than or equal ⁇ o 5 mm, a second diameter range between 5 mm and 8 mm, a third diameter range between 7 mm and 9 mm and a fourth diameter range larger or equal than 9mm.
  • the a ⁇ leas ⁇ two groups comprise three of the listed diameter ranges, preferably four of them. These four diameter ranges proved ⁇ o be very valuable as they cover many solitary bees a ⁇ different times of the year.
  • a ⁇ leas ⁇ some, preferably all of the nes ⁇ holes or tubes are transparent. This allows ⁇ o check wha ⁇ happens inside the nes ⁇ hole.
  • a ⁇ leas ⁇ some, preferably all of the nes ⁇ holes are removable. This allows ⁇ o remove the nes ⁇ holes for analysing the content of the nes ⁇ holes.
  • the distance between neighbouring nest holes is at least 3 cm, preferably a ⁇ leas ⁇ 4 cm, preferably a ⁇ leas ⁇ 4,5 cm.
  • the (removable) nes ⁇ holes are realized as tubes.
  • the device for solitary bee nesting comprises a plurality of nes ⁇ hole supports each configured ⁇ o hold one nes ⁇ hole or tube.
  • the nes ⁇ hole support is preferably a hole in a wall (including also the door) of the device for solitary bee nesting and the tube is inserted in the hole ⁇ o support the nes ⁇ hole/ ⁇ ube in the device for solitary bee nesting.
  • the nes ⁇ hole/ ⁇ ube can be easily removed from and/or installed in the nes ⁇ hole support.
  • the diameter of the nes ⁇ hole is provided preferably by the inner diameter of the removable tube.
  • the nes ⁇ holes or tubes are realised transparent. This allows ⁇ o check what happens in the nes ⁇ holes without disturbing the bees in it, for example ⁇ o count the number of larvae.
  • the tubes are closed a ⁇ the back end by a closure means.
  • the closure means is preferably made of a breathable material, preferably made of cork.
  • the tubes are open a ⁇ the back end. This allows the solitary bees ⁇ o build their own closure a ⁇ the back end which could improve the ventilation of the nes ⁇ hole.
  • the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a plurality of firs ⁇ nes ⁇ holes (firs ⁇ group) each having a firs ⁇ diameter, wherein the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a plurality of second nes ⁇ holes (second group) each having a second diameter, wherein the second diameter being larger than the firs ⁇ diameter.
  • the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a plurality of third nes ⁇ holes each having a third diameter, wherein the third diameter being larger than the second diameter.
  • the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a plurality of fourth nes ⁇ holes each having a fourth diameter, wherein the fourth diameter being larger than the third diameter.
  • the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a plurality of firs ⁇ nes ⁇ holes (firs ⁇ group) each comprising a firs ⁇ entrance having a firs ⁇ diameter, wherein the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a plurality of second nes ⁇ holes (second group) each comprising a second entrance having a second diameter, wherein the second diameter being larger than the firs ⁇ diameter.
  • the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a plurality of third nes ⁇ holes each comprising a third entrance having a third diameter, wherein the third diameter being larger than the second diameter.
  • the plurality of nesf holes comprises a plurality of fourth nest holes each comprising a fourth entrance having a fourth diameter, wherein the fourth diameter being larger than the third diameter.
  • a ⁇ leas ⁇ some, preferably all of the nes ⁇ holes are removable and the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprise different groups of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each group of nes ⁇ holes comprise a different diameter of the nes ⁇ holes, wherein a ⁇ leas ⁇ one nes ⁇ hole of each group is removed and analysed.
  • the different groups of nes ⁇ holes allow different solitary bee species collect pollen. Since different solitary bee species prefer different plants, the content of the nes ⁇ holes of different groups, i.e. of different bee species is more representative of the environment. Thus, the analysis of the content of the nes ⁇ holes of different groups is improved and the environment information is better.
  • the presence information retrieved from the occupancy information and the analysis result from the content of the removed nes ⁇ holes is combined ⁇ o ge ⁇ an improved presence information or an improved environment information. While the occupancy information provides more information about the quantity of different solitary bees present in the environment, the analysis of the content gives an independent information about the different plants and/or contaminants present in the environment.
  • the combination of a device for solitary bee nesting with a plurality of groups each having a plurality of nes ⁇ holes of the same diameter with removable nes ⁇ holes allows a very advantageous effect.
  • the pollen content of the nes ⁇ holes of different groups are different and complementary so ⁇ ha ⁇ the analysis of different nes ⁇ holes is more complete than the analysis of nes ⁇ holes of the same group.
  • the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a ⁇ leas ⁇ two different groups of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each nes ⁇ hole of the same group has the same diameter, wherein the nes ⁇ holes of different groups distinguish in their diameter, wherein a ⁇ leas ⁇ one nes ⁇ hole of each group is removed and analysed.
  • each group of nes ⁇ holes comprise a plurality of nes ⁇ holes, wherein an occupancy information per group of nes ⁇ holes is determined, and a presence information about the presence of different solitary bee species in the environment is determined based on the occupancy information, and the environment information is further based on the presence information.
  • the pollen of the a ⁇ leas ⁇ one removed nes ⁇ hole is analysed ⁇ o determine the plan ⁇ species present in the environment. Since the pollen and/or nectar contain traces of all plants the solitary bee has visited in the environment, the analysis of the pollen allows ⁇ o identify all plants represented in the pollen.
  • the content of the a ⁇ leas ⁇ one removed nes ⁇ hole is analysed by DNA or microscopic analysis (palynological analyses). Palynological analyses allow ⁇ o identify all types of plants of the environment represented in the pollen.
  • the content of the a ⁇ leas ⁇ one removed nes ⁇ hole is analysed ⁇ o detect a ⁇ leas ⁇ one contaminant, wherein based on the detected a ⁇ leas ⁇ one contaminant the environmental pollution is determined. Since, the pollen and/or nectar contained in the nes ⁇ holes represent a sample of all plants visited by the solitary bee, it provides a very good indicator of the contaminants present in the environment.
  • a plurality of devices for solitary bee nesting are placed a ⁇ different locations, wherein for each device for solitary bee nesting, a ⁇ leas ⁇ one closed nes ⁇ hole is removed and analysed, wherein, for each device for solitary bee nesting, the environment information is determined based on the analysed content of the removed a ⁇ leas ⁇ one closed nes ⁇ hole, wherein the environment information of a device for solitary bee nesting comprises comparison information with the environment information of one or more of the other devices for solitary bee nesting.
  • a structure wherein the structure comprises a plurality of nes ⁇ hole supports each for holding one of the pluralities of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each of the plurality of nes ⁇ holes is realised as a tube protruding from the structure, preferably into the interior of the structure being hollow.
  • this structure is much lighter and allows ⁇ o remove the nes ⁇ holes/tubes quite easily. The removed tubes are light and good ⁇ o handle.
  • the plurality of nes ⁇ holes comprises a ⁇ leas ⁇ two different groups of nes ⁇ holes, wherein each nes ⁇ hole of the same group has the same diameter, wherein the nes ⁇ entrances of different groups distinguish in their diameter.
  • the nesf hole supports are realised as through holes in the structure in which the tubes are inserted. This is a very simple and stable construction.
  • the tube opening is directly used as nesf entrance so that the nesf closure will be built in the tube. Thus, the nesf closure will stay in the tube, when the tube is removed.
  • each of the plurality of nesf holes has a depth between 12 cm and 22 cm, preferably between 15 cm and 19 cm.
  • the length defines how many eggs can be placed in the nesf hole. This length proved ⁇ o be a good compromise ⁇ o have enough content in the nesf hole for a complete analysis without affecting too many eggs.
  • ⁇ o be a good compromise ⁇ o have enough content in the nesf hole for a complete analysis without affecting too many eggs.
  • Figure 1 shows a front view of an embodiment of a device for solitary bee nesting according ⁇ o the invention.
  • Figure 2 shows the cross-sectional view of the device for solitary bee nesting of Fig. 1 along line ll-ll.
  • Figure 3 shows the cross-sectional view of the device for solitary bee nesting of Fig. 1 along line Ill-Ill.
  • Fig. 4 shows a full nesf hole 1 fixed in the nesf hole support.
  • Fig. 5 shows the full nesf hole 1 removed from its nesf hole support.
  • Fig. 6 shows a system according ⁇ o the invention.
  • Fig. 7 shows an embodiment of a firs ⁇ method according ⁇ o the invention.
  • Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of a second method according ⁇ o the invention.
  • Fig. 9 shows an embodiment of obtaining the occupancy information based on a photo.
  • Fig. 10 shows an exemplary photo of the bee hotel for determining the occupancy information.
  • Fig. 1 1 and 12 show sub-images of the photo of Fig. 10.
  • Bees can be classified in the group of domestic bees and the group of solitary bees, often also called wild bees.
  • the present invention is for solitary bees, in particular for cavity nesting bees.
  • Each female solitary bee lays 20 ⁇ o 30 eggs during her life.
  • a bee finds a nest hole (cavity) she will collect materials to create the cell for her first egg: a ball of pollen stuck together with nectar for each larvae to eat until it develops into an adult bee.
  • the female solitary bee places the ball inside the cell and lays an egg on top, leaving space for the larvae to grow into an adult bee.
  • the (female) solitary bee selects a nest hole based on the diameter (of the entrance) of the nest hole.
  • Different bee species or bee geni have different preferences for plants from which they collect pollen and nectar. They use also different material as a building material for the partition wall and/or for nest closure of the nest hole, when it is full.
  • Fig.l to 3 show an exemplary embodiment of a device for solitary bee nesting 10. Subsequently, the device for solitary bee nesting 10 is shortly called bee hotel 10.
  • the bee hotel 10 is particularly designed for one or more of the species of the following bee geni: Osmia (i.e. mason bee), Megachile (i.e. leafcutter bees), Heriades, Anthidium (i.e. wool carder bee). Bees of those four geni/families are present all over Europe and guarantee thus a wide applicability of the bee hotel. Outside of Europe, the bee hotel can be easily adapted based on the bee geni/families present in the territorium of application or simply the same holes are used for different bee species.
  • the bee hotel 10 comprises preferably a structure.
  • the bee hotel 10 is realized as a hollow structure with walls.
  • the bee hotel 10 in particular its hollow part has a substantially rectangular shape (not considering the roof 17).
  • the walls comprise a front wall 1 1 , two side walls 12 and 14, a back wall 13, a bottom wall 15 and/or a top wall 17.
  • the front wall 1 1 is preferably parallel to the back wall 13 and/or perpendicular to the side walls 12, 14 or to the bottom wall 15.
  • the side wall 12 or 14 is preferably parallel to respective other side wall 14 or 12 and/or perpendicular to the front wall 1 1 , the back wall 13 or to the bottom wall 15.
  • the bottom wall 15 is preferably perpendicular to the front wall 1 1 , the back wall 13 or to the side walls 12 or 14.
  • the top wall is here realized as a roof 17.
  • the roof has preferably an inclination with respect to the bottom wall 15 or the horizontal plane so that the bee hotel 10 is protected from rain.
  • the roof 17 is realized as a triangular roof.
  • the walls 1 1 , 12, 13, 14, 15 are preferably flat and/or straight walls. It is understood that the walls can be arranged differently and/or be formed differently.
  • the walls 1 1 -17 are in one embodiment made of wood. It is however in another embodiment possible to realize the walls 1 1 -17 in other materials like plastic, metal or a compound material.
  • the walls have preferably an inner side pointing to the inside of the bee hotel 10 (or inwards) and an outer side pointing the outside of the bee hotel 10 (or outwards).
  • the space included inside the walls is preferably called the interior of the bee hotel 10.
  • the walls are preferably such that the interior of the bee hotel 10 have no openings to the outside so that there is (almost) no light which enters into the interior of the bee hotel 10.
  • at least one of the walls contain a door to open the bee hotel 10 and to access the interior.
  • the door is realized in the front wall 1 1 or more precisely, the front wall 1 1 is realized as door to be opened.
  • the door is realized in the front wall 1 1 and one side wall 12.
  • a hinge 16 for opening the door could then be arranged between the back wall 13 and the side wall 12 so that the front wall 1 1 and the side wall 12 open together as door.
  • the hinge 16 can however also be arranged between the front wall 1 1 and the side wall 12 so that jus ⁇ the front wall 1 1 or jus ⁇ a par ⁇ of it opens as door.
  • the door could also be arranged in the back wall 13 so ⁇ ha ⁇ the interior of the bee hotel 10 is accessed from the back wall 13, i.e. from the side opposing ⁇ o the entrances 3 of the nes ⁇ holes 2.
  • the described enclosing wall structure is an advantageous embodiment of the bee hotel structure.
  • the bee hotel could also be realized by an open structure, e.g. by a rigid front wall/pla ⁇ e which is open on its back side.
  • the nes ⁇ holes 1 described below could be covered by a light blocking textile.
  • the bee hotel comprises a plurality of nes ⁇ holes 1 .
  • the term "nes ⁇ hole” is used in this document in large way including no ⁇ only the hole in which the solitary bee nests bu ⁇ also the structure around the hole providing the hole. Sometimes the term nes ⁇ hole is thus used as synonym for a nes ⁇ of the solitary bee.
  • Each nes ⁇ hole 1 is configured ⁇ o allow a solitary bee ⁇ o place a ⁇ leas ⁇ one egg (preferably more eggs) in the nes ⁇ hole 1 and the necessary food or provisions for the egg, larvae and then cocoon ⁇ o survive.
  • the provisions or food are normally the pollen and/or nectar collected from the plants of the environment.
  • Each nes ⁇ hole 1 comprises a nes ⁇ entrance 3 for entering the nes ⁇ hole 1 .
  • the nes ⁇ hole 1 has a certain diameter.
  • the diameter of the nes ⁇ hole 1 refers preferably ⁇ o the diameter of the nes ⁇ entrance 3 and/or ⁇ o the diameter of the nes ⁇ hole 1 behind the nes ⁇ entrance 3.
  • the diameter of the nes ⁇ hole 1 is constant over more than 50%, preferably more than 70%, preferably more than 80%, preferably more than 90% of the length of the nes ⁇ hole 1 .
  • the diameter of the nes ⁇ entrance 3 and the nes ⁇ hole 1 behind the nes ⁇ entrance 3 is the same.
  • the cross-sectional shape of the nes ⁇ hole 1 is preferably circular.
  • the diameter of such a non-circular nes ⁇ holes 1 would correspond ⁇ o the diameter of a circular nes ⁇ hole 1 which would be used by the same solitary bee, preferably the average diameter of cross-sectional shape of the nes ⁇ hole 1 .
  • the cross-section shape of the nes ⁇ hole 1 is preferably the cross-sectional shape of the nes ⁇ entrance 3 and/or of the nes ⁇ hole 1 behind the nes ⁇ entrance 3.
  • the back end of the nes ⁇ hole 1 is closed.
  • the back end of the nes ⁇ hole 1 is open.
  • the length (or also called depth) of the nes ⁇ hole 1 is preferably larger than 8 centimetres (cm), preferably larger than 10 cm, preferably larger than 12 cm, preferably larger than 13 cm, preferably larger than 15 cm.
  • the length (or also called depth) of the nesf hole 1 is preferably smaller than 25 cm, preferably smaller than 22 cm, preferably smaller than 20 cm, preferably smaller than 19 cm, preferably smaller than 18 cm.
  • a nesf hole of 17 cm proved ⁇ o be very effective. If the nesf hole 1 is much longer, the number of eggs destroyed for an analysis is no ⁇ reasonable. If the nesf hole 1 is much shorter, the number of eggs and the amount of material might no ⁇ be sufficient for a proper analysis.
  • the plurality of nesf holes 1 comprise different groups 2 of nesf holes 1 .
  • each group 2 of nesf holes comprises a plurality of nesf holes.
  • the nesf holes of the same group 2 have the same diameter.
  • the nesf holes 1 of different groups 2 distinguish in fheir diameter.
  • each group 2 of nesf holes 1 is characterized or defined by the diameter of its nesf holes 1 .
  • the plurality of nesf holes 1 comprise af leas ⁇ two different groups 2 of nesf holes 1, preferably af leas ⁇ three, preferably four different groups 2 of nesf holes 1. Obviously, if is also possible ⁇ o have a bee hotel 10 with more than four different groups 2 of nesf holes 1.
  • the different groups 2 comprise of leas ⁇ a firs ⁇ group 2.1 of nesf holes 1.1 and a second group 2.2 of nesf holes 1.2.
  • the different groups 2 comprise further a third group 2.3 of nesf holes 1 .3.
  • the different groups 2 comprise further a fourth group 2.4 of nesf holes 1 .4.
  • the different groups 2 are preferably selected from the following groups 2.
  • a group 2 with nesf holes 1 having a firs ⁇ diameter having a firs ⁇ diameter.
  • the firs ⁇ diameter being smaller than 5 mm, preferably than 4.5 mm.
  • the firs ⁇ diameter is larger than 2 mm, preferably than 2.5 mm.
  • the firs ⁇ diameter is in the range between 3mm and 4 mm.
  • the formulation "between" shall also include the border values, here of 3mm and 4mm.
  • this group 2 of nesf holes 1 is configured ⁇ o host the Heriade bees.
  • the firs ⁇ group 2.1 of nesf holes 1 .1 has the firs ⁇ diameter.
  • the firs ⁇ diameter is 4 mm.
  • a group 2 with nesf holes 1 having a second diameter is preferably larger than the firs ⁇ diameter.
  • the second diameter being preferably smaller than 12 mm, preferably than 10 mm, preferably than 9 mm, preferably than 8 mm, preferably than 7.5 mm, preferably than 7 mm, preferably than 6.5 mm.
  • the second diameter is larger than 4 mm, preferably than
  • the second diameter is in the range between 5mm and 10 mm, preferably between 5 mm and
  • this group 2 of nesf holes 1 is configured ⁇ o host the smaller ones of the Osmia and Megachile bees.
  • the second group 2.2 of nesf holes 1 .2 has the second diameter.
  • a group 2 with nesf holes 1 having a third diameter is preferably larger than the firs ⁇ diameter and/or second diameter.
  • the third diameter being preferably smaller than 12 mm, preferably than 1 1 mm, preferably than 10.5 mm, preferably than 10 mm, preferably than 9.5 mm, preferably than 9 mm, preferably than 8.5 mm.
  • the third diameter is larger than 4 mm, preferably than 5 mm, preferably than 6 mm, preferably than 7 mm, preferably than
  • the third diameter is in the range between 5 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 7 mm and 10 mm, preferably between 7.5 mm and 9 mm.
  • the third diameter is 8 mm.
  • this group 2 of nesf holes 1 is configured ⁇ o host larger species of the Osmia and Megachile bees.
  • the third group 2.3 of nesf holes 1 .3 has the third diameter.
  • a group 2 with nesf holes 1 having a fourth diameter is preferably larger than the firs ⁇ diameter and/or second diameter and/or third diameter.
  • the fourth diameter is larger than 8 mm, preferably than 9 mm, preferably than 9.5 mm.
  • the fourth diameter is preferably smaller than 15 mm, preferably than 14 mm, preferably than 13 mm, preferably than 12 mm, preferably than 1 1 mm, preferably than 1 1 .5 mm.
  • the fourth diameter is in the range between 9 mm and 16 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 15 mm, preferably between 9 mm and 13 mm.
  • the fourth diameter is 10 mm.
  • this group 2 of nesf holes 1 is configured ⁇ o host the Anfhidium bees.
  • the fourth group 2.4 of nesf holes 1 .4 has the fourth diameter.
  • more than 30%, preferably more than 40%, preferably more than 50% of the nesf holes 1 are in the third group 2.3.
  • less than 70%, preferably less than 60%, preferably less than 55% of the nest holes 1 are in the third group 2.3.
  • 50% of the nesf holes 1 are in the third group 2.3.
  • more than 10%, preferably more than 15%, preferably more than 20% of the nest holes 1 are in the second group 2.2.
  • less than 50%, preferably less than 40%, preferably less than 30% of the nest holes 1 are in the second group 2.2.
  • 25% of the nesf holes 1 are in the second group 2.2.
  • more than 5%, preferably more than 10% of the nest holes 1 are in the firs ⁇ group 2.1 or the fourth group 2.4.
  • less than 25%, preferably less than 20%, preferably less than 15% of the nes ⁇ holes 1 are in the firs ⁇ group 2.1 or the fourth group 2.4.
  • 12.5% of the nes ⁇ holes 1 are in the firs ⁇ group 2.1 or the fourth group 2.4.
  • One, some or all nes ⁇ holes 1 are preferably removable from the bee hotel 10, preferably from the structure of the bee hotel 10, preferably from the front wall 1 1 .
  • one, some or each nes ⁇ hole 1 can be removed individually from the bee hotel 10 so ⁇ ha ⁇ the other nes ⁇ holes 1 can stay in place, when one of the nes ⁇ holes 1 is removed.
  • one, some or each nes ⁇ hole 1 of each group 2 can be removed (individually) from the bee hotel 10 so ⁇ ha ⁇ the other nes ⁇ holes 1 of this group 2 can stay in place, when one of the nes ⁇ holes 1 of this group 2 is removed.
  • the bee hotel 10 comprises preferably a nes ⁇ hole support ⁇ o support the removable nes ⁇ hole 1 in the bee hotel 10.
  • the nes ⁇ hole support is preferably a hole or recess, in particular a through-hole in the bee hotel 10, preferably its structure, preferably its front wall 1 1 .
  • the diameter of the through-hole corresponds preferably ⁇ o the outer diameter of the tube 4 so ⁇ ha ⁇ the tube 4 of the nes ⁇ hole 1 can be placed/plugged into the nes ⁇ hole support by inserting the tube 4 into the through-hole.
  • the hole in the bee hotel 10, in particular in its front wall 1 1 provides also the nes ⁇ entrance 3 for the respective nes ⁇ hole 1 .
  • the nes ⁇ hole 1 is preferably realised as a tube 4.
  • the tube 4 has preferably a circular cross-section. Even if less preferred, it would also be possible ⁇ o use other cross-sectional forms like a square.
  • the outer diameter of the tube 4 is preferably such ⁇ ha ⁇ it fits in (the hole of) the nes ⁇ hole support.
  • the inner diameter of the tube 4 corresponds preferably ⁇ o the diameter of the nes ⁇ entrance 3 of the nes ⁇ hole 1 .
  • the front opening of the tube 4 pointing towards the hole in the front wall 1 1 realises the nes ⁇ entrance 3.
  • the back-opening of the tube 4, opposed ⁇ o the front-opening, is preferably closed by a closure means 5.
  • the closure means 5 is made preferably a breathable material which allows an exchange of air and/or humidity. Plere the closure means 5 is made of cork plugged- in the back-opening of the tube.
  • the nest holes 1 or tubes 4 extend preferably in the interior of the bee hotel 10. The nest holes 1 or tubes 4 extend preferably with its longitudinal axis perpendicular to the front wall 1 1 and/or back wall 13 and/or parallel to the bottom wall 15 and/or side walls 12, 14.
  • the nest hole 1 or the tube 4 has transparent lateral walls.
  • the nest hole 1 or the tube 4 is preferably made off a transparent material, preferably a transparent plastic like acrylic glass.
  • This has the advantage that the content of the nest hole 1 can be visually analysed without opening the nest hole 1 and thus eventually harming the eggs, larvae, cocoons or bees (alternatives subsequently just referred as larvae for the sake of brevity) enclosed in the nest hole 1.
  • This allows to check, the number of larvae in the nest hole 1 . It allows further to check, if the nest hole 1 has some problems like an illness, a fungus, a parasite or something else.
  • Acrylic glass allows further to send the tubes 4 / nest holes 1 via postal service without the risk of destroying the tubes 4 / nest holes 1.
  • the minimum distance between two neighbouring nest holes 1 is preferably larger than 2 cm, preferably than 3 cm, preferably than 4 cm.
  • the minimum distance between two neighbouring nest holes 1 is in the shown embodiment 5 cm. This allows that the solitary bees of neighbouring nest holes 1 not to disturb each other, but also that the nest holes 1 are easily identifiable for a user.
  • each of the plurality of nest holes 1 is identifiable by an identifier. This allows to exchange information about a certain nest hole 1.
  • each nest hole 1 is identifiable by a combination of a first identifier and second identifier, e.g. a row identifier and a column identifier.
  • the row identifiers are here chosen as alphabetic letters A, B, C, D, E, F, G, FI and the column identifiers as Arabic numbers 1 , 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • the plurality of nest holes 1 is preferably arranged in an ordered manner.
  • the plurality of nest holes 1 are arranged in a matrix of rows and columns.
  • neighbouring nest holes 1 in the row direction and/or in the column direction have preferably all the same distance, preferably the above- described minimum distance.
  • the device for solitary bee nesting 10 comprises a ⁇ leas ⁇ one row for each group 2 of nes ⁇ holes 1 .
  • one row would comprise only nes ⁇ holes 1 of the same group 2.
  • Some groups 2 can comprise only one row of nes ⁇ holes 1 like the groups 2.1 and 2.4.
  • Some groups 2 can comprise two or more rows of nes ⁇ holes 1 like the groups 2.2 and 2.3.
  • the row A contains the nes ⁇ holes 1 .1 of the firs ⁇ group 2.1 .
  • the rows B and C contain the nes ⁇ holes 1 .2 of the second group 2.2.
  • the rows D ⁇ o G contain the nes ⁇ holes 1 .3 of the third group 2.3.
  • the row H contains the nes ⁇ holes 1.4 of the fourth group 2.4.
  • the bee hotel 10 described is well suited ⁇ o analyse the solitary bees and/or their collected pollen in the environment around the bee hotel 10 as will be described in more detail below. This analysis allows ⁇ o make conclusions about the environment around the bee hotel 10, in particular about the biodiversity of the plants growing in the environment and/or about the contamination of the environment. The contamination includes in particular pesticides, heavy metals and others.
  • the environment of the bee hotel 10 corresponds normally ⁇ o an area corresponding ⁇ o a radius of 350 meter (m) around the bee hotel 10.
  • Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the bee hotel 10 as described above and a processing means 20.
  • the processing means 20 comprises a server means 22 (subsequently also called server) and a client means 21 (subsequently also called client device or jus ⁇ client).
  • the server 22 is preferably a server 22 connected over an interne ⁇ 23 connection ⁇ o the client means.
  • the client device 21 is preferably a smart phone or table ⁇ with a special client software installed (often also called app).
  • the client device 21 also be a standard personal computer with a special client software installed.
  • the client device 21 could also be a normal client computing device like a personal computer, a smart TV, a table ⁇ or smartphone with a browser application through which client interface can be accessed.
  • the client interface accessed through a web browser of a client device 21 or the client software installed on client device 21 are subsequently no ⁇ distinguished any more and are jus ⁇ called commonly client software.
  • the client software is configured ⁇ o realize the steps of the firs ⁇ method.
  • the client software provides a user interface for its users. This user interface of the client software is also called user interface of the client device 21 .
  • the client device 21 comprises preferably a camera 24.
  • the client device 21 comprises preferably a display means ⁇ o display for example the user interface of the client software, ⁇ o display an image received a ⁇ the camera 24, e.g. a real-time image currently taken a ⁇ the camera 24, or ⁇ o display something else.
  • the display means can be a traditional display, but also other display means like a projector.
  • the client device 21 comprises preferably input means for inputting user input in the client device 21.
  • the input means is preferably a touch screen which unites the functions of the display means and the input means.
  • the server 22 is preferably configured ⁇ o register a plurality of users. Each user having a ⁇ leas ⁇ one bee hotel 10 can register his/her a ⁇ leas ⁇ one bee hotel 10. Each of the bee hotel 10 is preferably registered in combination with one or more of the following additional information: its location, its version (big, small), an identifier ( ⁇ o distinguish from other bee hotels 10 of the same user). Each user has preferably a dedicated user space with his registered a ⁇ leas ⁇ one bee hotel 10 and other registered data.
  • the user space stores preferably data/information described below for the two methods for analysing solitary bees in the bee hotel 10.
  • Analysing solitary bees is here mean ⁇ in a large way including all analysis related with the bees. This may include the analysis of the closed nes ⁇ holes of the bee hotel 10 as in the firs ⁇ method or the analysis of the provision of the solitary bees in the nes ⁇ holes 1 as in the second method.
  • step SO the bee hotel 10 is provided in a location.
  • the optimal positioning of the bee hotel 10 with the right amount of sun, the correct heigh ⁇ is well known ⁇ o a person skilled in the ar ⁇ and will no ⁇ be repeated here.
  • the region around the bee hotel 10 is defined as the environment of the bee hotel 10.
  • the solitary bees living in the environment and looking for a nes ⁇ ⁇ o place their eggs will select a suitable one of the nes ⁇ holes 1 .
  • the solitary bee selecting one of the nes ⁇ holes 1 will place its eggs and the collected provisions in one of the nes ⁇ holes 1 suitable for this solitary bee type.
  • Provisions are the pollen and/or nectar collected by the solitary bee and stored in the nes ⁇ hole 1 (together with ⁇ he egg(s).
  • the solitary bee will close the entrance 3 of the nes ⁇ hole 1 with a nes ⁇ closure 6.
  • Such a nes ⁇ hole 1 with a nes ⁇ closure 6 is called subsequently also full nes ⁇ hole 1 .
  • Fig. 4 shows such a full nes ⁇ hole 1 .
  • an occupancy information per group of nesf holes (short occupancy information) is determined.
  • the occupancy information is any information which allows ⁇ o determine how many nesf holes 1 of each group 2 are full, i.e.
  • the occupancy information is received preferably a ⁇ the processing means 20, preferably a ⁇ the client device 21 .
  • the occupancy information is received a ⁇ the processing means 20, preferably a ⁇ the client device 21 in the form of a photo or image of the of the nest holes 1 of the bee hotel 10.
  • the user takes the photo of the nest holes 1 of the bee hotel 10 with the client device 21 and the processing means 20 retrieves the occupancy information for all the nest holes 1 from the photo of the nest holes 1 by detecting the full nest holes 1.
  • one photo 30 is sufficient to show all nest holes 1 of the bee hotel 10 as shown in Fig. 10.
  • the camera 24 for making the photo 30 is preferably included in the client device 21 .
  • the retrieving of the occupancy information from the photo 30 can be made at the server 22 by sending the photo 30 to the server 22 and analysing the photo 30 on the server 22 with image processing means for detecting the full or occupied nest holes 1.
  • This image processing step can also be made on the client device 21 and just the retrieved occupancy information is sent to the server 22. Instead and/or in addition of using image processing, it is also possible to use artificial intelligence to determine the occupancy information.
  • Fig. 9 shows an exemplary method for the step SI to detect the occupancy information based on a photo of the nest holes 1 of the bee hotel 10.
  • the camera 24 is aligned such that the nest holes 1 , preferably all nes ⁇ holes 1 of the bee hotel 10 are visible on the photo 30.
  • the client device 21 is configured ⁇ o show on the display means a mask 31 over a live camera image or real-time camera image taken a ⁇ the camera 24 of the client device 21 as shown in Fig. 10.
  • the mask 31 is configured ⁇ o identify the nesf holes 1 of the bee hotel 10 shown in the photo 30 or the live camera image.
  • the photo 30 can be taken in the subsequent step S22.
  • the mask 31 helps also that the photos 30 of the bee hotel 10 are taken with repeatable conditions and/or with the correct distance and/or angle.
  • the mask 31 is a grid which divides as many boxes as nesf holes 1 .
  • the camera 24 is then moved until the mask 31 is placed such that each box contains exactly one nesf hole 1 .
  • the grid form of the mask 31 is due ⁇ o the matrix arrangement of the nesf holes 1 on the bee hotel 10.
  • the mask 31 shows preferably one hole region for each nesf hole 1 so that the mask 31 allows ⁇ o determine for each nesf hole 1 shown in the photo a respective hole region around the nesf hole 1 . Instead of showing the hole region, the mask 31 could also show the outer borders of the bee hotel 10 and/or the individual nesf holes 10 so that the hole regions could be calculated from this information.
  • the mask 31 is preferably further configured ⁇ o identify the specific nesf hole 1 of the bee hotel 10 in each hole region. That is that the mask 31 allows ⁇ o associate each nesf hole 1 shown in the photo or in a hole region ⁇ o associate a respective nesf hole 1 of the bee hotel 10.
  • step S22 the photo of the bee hotel 10 is taken. As mentioned before, if might be in some embodiments necessary ⁇ o fake more than one photo of the nesf holes 1 of the bee hotel 10.
  • the bee hotel 10 is identified. This allows ⁇ o identify the user, the position and/or the identify of the bee hotel 10.
  • the bee hotel 10 is preferably identified based on the photo taken in step S22.
  • the bee hotel 10 comprises a visual identifier which is represented in the photo taken in step S22.
  • the identifier can be for example a code, e.g. a QR code.
  • the bee hotel 10 based on other features like the position where the photo in step S22 were taken and/or based on the user registered in the client device 21 , when taking the photo. It is also possible that the bee hotel 10 is simply selected by a user input before or after the photo of the bee hotel 10 is taken.
  • the step S23 can also be performed before step S22 and/or S21 .
  • a sub-image 32 is generated from the photo 30 for each nesf hole 1 of the bee hotel 10 shown in the photo 30.
  • the sub-image 32 is generated from the photo 30 for each nesf hole 1 of the bee hotel 10 shown in the photo 30 with the help of the mask 31 .
  • each sub-image 32 for one nesf hole 1 shows the hole region around the nesf hole 1. There are thus as many sub images 32 as nesf holes 1 shown in the photo 30. Based on the position of the sub image 32 on the photo 30 and/or based on the mask 31 , each sub-image 32 can be associated ⁇ o (exactly) one nesf hole 1 of the bee hotel 10.
  • the photo 30 is cut along the lines of the grid of the mask 31 to divide the photo 30 info the sub-images 32 included between the lines of the grid of the mask 31 .
  • Fig. 1 1 and 12 show the sub-images 32 generated in step S24.
  • the occupancy information is defected for each nesf hole 1 shown in the photo 30 based on the photo 30.
  • the occupancy information (of the nesf hole 1 associated with the sub-image 32 and/or shown in the sub-image 32) is defected based on the sub-image 32.
  • the occupancy information of one nesf hole 1 comprises the information, if the nesf hole 1 is occupied as shown in the sub-image 32.1 of Fig. 1 1 or no ⁇ as shown in sub-image 32.2 of Fig. 12.
  • the occupancy information of each nes ⁇ hole 1 is determined based on the analysis of the sub-image 32 showing the nes ⁇ hole 1 by an artificial intelligence (Al) engine.
  • the Al engine is trained by a plurality of sub images 32 of nes ⁇ holes 1 for which the occupancy information is provided/given ⁇ o the Al engine.
  • the Al engine uses mainly the feature of the colour and/or intensity of the sub-image 32 (in particular in the region of the nes ⁇ hole 1 ).
  • the Al engine can further use the pattern and/or texture of the sub-image 32 (in particular in the region of the nes ⁇ hole 1 ).
  • the nes ⁇ holes 1 .i of the i- ⁇ h group 2.i will be analysed (and/or trained) by the sub-images 32 of the nes ⁇ holes 1 .i of the same group 2. i.
  • the same Al engine is used for the nes ⁇ holes 1 of all groups 2.
  • the output of the Al engine is, if the nest hole 1 (in the sub-image 32) is occupied or not, i.e. the occupancy information.
  • each sub-image 32 in step S25 is determined based on classical image processing, e.g. based on the detected colour of the nest hole 1 .
  • the occupancy information of the nest holes 1 can be determined directly from the photo.
  • the step S21 and S22 are realised preferably with the client device and/or with the help of the user.
  • the steps S23, S24 and/or S25 are preferably performed by the processing means 20.
  • the processing of step(s) S23, S24 and/or S25 can be done either in the client device 21 or the server 22 or by both.
  • the photo taken in step S22 is sent from the client device 21 to the server 22 and the steps S23 to S25 are performed preferably on the server 22.
  • the occupancy information can be received at a user interface of the processing means 20, preferably of the client device 21 .
  • the client device 21 sends preferably the occupancy information to the server 22.
  • the user interface of the client device 21 could show nest holes 1 of the bee hotel 10 (registered for the user) and the user can select the ones which are full. This embodiment can be also used for training the Al engine.
  • steps S21 to S25 there could be one step in which a user selects manually all nest holes 1 which are occupied.
  • each sub-image 32 there exists the occupancy information for the nest hole 1 associated to the sub-image 32 which can then be used for training the Al engine. If is also possible ⁇ o use the method described in steps S21 ⁇ o S25 ⁇ o determine the occupancy information based on the Al engine and show the result ⁇ o the user on the client device 21. The user can then correct the result, where the result is no ⁇ correct and/or confirm the correctness of the determined occupancy information. The result can then be again used for training the Al engine further.
  • the occupancy information can also be received differently af the processing means 20 or the client device 21 , e.g. the numbers nfi can be inserted in a user interface for each group 2.i.
  • the occupancy information is preferably sen ⁇ ⁇ o the server 22 (in form of the photo of the bee hotel 10 or the occupancy information about each nesf hole 1 or the numbers nfi or anything else allowing ⁇ o retrieve the number nfi for each group 2.i.
  • the occupancy information is sen ⁇ elecfronically/digifally ⁇ o the server 22.
  • the occupancy information is sen ⁇ from the client device 21 ⁇ o the server 22, in particular from the client device 21 of the user for which the bee hotel 10 is registered.
  • the occupancy information can also be sen ⁇ by email or by postal mail ⁇ o an analysis centre where the occupancy information is inserted in a processing means 20.
  • the occupancy information is preferably converted in one or more of the following relative occupancy information, preferably all of them: occupancy rate rf of total number of nesf holes 1 , occupancy rate ri of each group 2.i of nesf holes 1 .i and a distribution rate di of full nesf holes 1 .i per group 2.i.
  • occupancy rate rf occupancy rate rf of total number of nesf holes 1
  • occupancy rate ri occupancy rate ri of each group 2.i of nesf holes 1 .i
  • the occupancy rate rf of total number of nesf holes 1 can be obtained for example by the total number nf of full nesf holes 1 divided by the total number n of nesf holes 1 .
  • the occupancy rate ri of a group 2.i of nesf holes 1 .i can be obtained for example by the number nfi of full nes ⁇ holes 1 of group 2.i divided by the total number ni of nest holes 1 .i of this group 2.i.
  • the sum of all ri should correspond ⁇ o rf.
  • the disfribufion rate di of full nesf holes 1 for group 2.i can be obtained by the number nfi of full nesf holes 1 .i of group 2.i divided by the total number of full nesf holes nf.
  • the sum of the disfribufion rates di of all groups 2.i should sum up ⁇ o 100%.
  • the converted occupancy information comprises preferably the occupancy rate ri for each group 2.i and/or the disfribufion rate di for each group 2.i.
  • a presence information about the presence of different solitary bee species in the environment is defermined/compufed based on the occupancy information of each group 2.i.
  • the presence information about the presence of different solitary bee species in the environment is preferably determined based on the converted occupancy information of each group 2.i.
  • the known diameter of the nesf entrance 3 of a group 2.i of nesf holes 1 .i allows ⁇ o determine the bee species living in the nesf holes 1 .i of this group 2.i.
  • the bee species using the nesf holes 1 .i of the group 2.i are known due ⁇ o the known diameter of the nesf entrance 3.
  • the occupancy information in particular the occupancy rate ri and/or the disfribufion rate di of the group 2.i gives an indication about the presence of the bee species for which the nesf entrance 3 of this group 2.i is designed.
  • the occupancy rate ri gives rather an absolute information, if there are many, average or few bees of this species in the environment.
  • the disfribufion rate di of the group 2. i gives rather a relative information of how many bees of this species are present in the environment relative ⁇ o other bee species (present in the bee hotel 10).
  • the time when the occupancy information for the groups 2 of the bee hotel 10 is determined is determined together with the occupancy information. This can be the time, when the occupancy information is inserted in the user interface of the client device 21 ora time inserted in the user interface.
  • the occupancy sample time is preferably the same for all groups 2.i, i.e. the occupancy information for all the groups 2 are taken af the same moment, i.e. the occupancy sample time.
  • the presence information is preferably defermined/compufed based on the occupancy information of each group 2.i, the diameter of the nesf entrances of each group 2.i and the occupancy sample time.
  • information about the nest content can help ⁇ o distinguish between different bee species preferring the same group 2 of nesf holes 1 a ⁇ the same time of the year.
  • the nesf content information is retrieved for each full nesf hole 1 or only for each full nesf hole
  • the nesf content information can comprise one or more of the following: Colour of the provisions enclosed in the full nesf hole 1 , information about the nesf closure 6 and/or the department walls, the depth of the nesf closure 6.
  • the colour of the provisions enclosed can be checked through the transparent nesf holes 1.
  • the depth of the nesf closure 6, i.e. the distance of the nesf closure 6 from the nesf entrance 3 could be checked from the nesf entrance 3 or through the transparent walls of the nesf holes 1 .
  • the information about the nesf closure 6 and/or the department walls could be fheir colour, or the material used. This could be check from the nesf entrance 3 or through the transparent walls of the nesf hole 1.
  • the presence information is preferably defermined/compufed based on the occupancy information of each group 2.i, the diameter of the nesf entrances of each group 2.i and the nesf content information (and preferably based on the occupancy sample time) .
  • the content information can help ⁇ o identify the bee species of the nesf hole 1 . This is possible, because different bee species prefer different plants which causes a different provision colour. This is also possible because they use different materials for the department walls and the nesf closure 6 causing different colours and materials of them and/or because they arrange the nesf closure af different depths. This is further possible based on the larvae contained in the nesf hole 1.
  • the nesf content information is preferably received from the client device.
  • Some information could be (automatically) retrieved from the photo of the nesf entrances 3 of the bee hotel 10 like the colour or depth of the nesf closure 6 of the nesf holes 1 .
  • the nesf content information could also be inserted by a user interface of the client device 21.
  • the client software could also request the user ⁇ o add the nesf content information jus ⁇ for the nest holes 1 , where if is necessary because there might be a conflict of two or more bee species which could nest in the nest hole 1 .
  • the nest holes 1 .i of one group 2.i could be subdivided in at least two sub-groups belonging each to a distinct bee species, wherein the full nest holes 1 .i of this group 2.i are associated to the respective bee species based on the nest content information.
  • the sub-groups of a group 2 could be considered as own groups for the purpose of calculation of rates above.
  • the sub-groups of a group 2 are not individually considered as own groups for the purpose of calculation of rates above.
  • the presence information comprises preferably one or more of : a general presence information of solitary bees in general in the environment (determined preferably based on the occupancy rate rt of total number of nest holes 1 ), the species specific (species group specific) presence information (determined based on the occupancy rate ri of the respective group 2. i of nest holes 1 .i belonging to the respective bee species and a relative species specific (or species group specific) presence information (determined based on the distribution rate di of full nest holes 1 .i of the group 2.i belonging to the respective bee species).
  • the step S2 as described here is preferably performed by the processing means 20, preferably by the server 22.
  • the method comprises a further step S3 in which a further information about the environment (environment information) is determined/computed based on the presence information.
  • the environment information comprises preferably a plant presence information and/or environmental pollution information.
  • the plant presence information gives an indication about plants present in the environment, thus about the biodiversity of the plants in the environment. This is due to the fact that different bee species prefer pollen of different plants. Thus, the presence information of different bee species allows a conclusion about the presence of the plants preferred by these bees.
  • the presence information gives an indication about the environmental pollution in the environment. Some bee species are sensible to environmental pollution so that the presence of different bee species can also be an indicator for the environmental pollution of the environment of the bee hotel 10.
  • Environmental pollution includes in particular the quantity of pesticides in the environment.
  • the environment information is preferably sent to the user, preferably to the client software of the client device.
  • the steps SI to S3 are preferably repeated at different occupancy sample times of the year.
  • an occupancy sample period is given to a user so that the occupancy information is taken at an occupancy sample time within the given occupancy sample period.
  • the occupancy sample time is a reasonable and meaningful time of the year and the occupancy information from different bee hotels 10 are taken at the same time and are comparable.
  • the given occupancy time period for taking the occupancy information could be preferably a certain week of the year.
  • the occupancy sample time or period is preferably chosen to be at the mid to end of the flying period of at least one solitary bee which would select one of the nest holes 1 of the bee hotel 10.
  • the occupancy sample period is preferably communicated to the user via the client software. However, it is also possible to communicate the occupancy sample period to the user with a manual or instructions.
  • a plurality of bee hotels 10 are placed af different locations.
  • the steps SI ⁇ o S3 are repeated for each bee hotel 10 (preferably in the same occupancy sample period).
  • the server collects the occupancy information and/or the presence information and/or the environment information of each bee hotel 10 at the different locations.
  • a map with the one or more of the mentioned information can be realized by placing the respective information on the respective locations of the bee hotel 10 on the map.
  • the steps SI , S2 and/or S3 are preferably (at least partly) performed by the processing means 20 as explained above. However, it is also possible to perform the method without the help of a processing means 20.
  • Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of a second method for analysing the solitary bees in the bee hotel 10.
  • the step SO of providing a bee hotel 10 in the environment is as explained above and will not be described again.
  • a step SI 1 at least one of the full nest holes 1 of the bee hotel 10 is removed. This is realized by removing the nest hole 1 or the tube 4 out of the nest hole support of the bee hotel 10.
  • the nest holes 1 / tubes 4 are arranged in the front wall 1 1 and door so that the nes ⁇ holes 1 can be accessed better, when the door is open.
  • the hinge 16 for opening the door is arranged between the back wall 13 and the side wall 12 so that the front wall 1 1 and the side wall 12 open together as door.
  • the nes ⁇ holes 1 can be arranged closer ⁇ o the opposite side wall 14 as the back ends of the tubes 4 swing less in the direction of the side wall 14.
  • the removed nes ⁇ hole 1 needs no ⁇ ⁇ o be closed as it is naturally closed by the solitary by through a nes ⁇ closure.
  • a plurality of full nes ⁇ holes 1 is removed.
  • a ⁇ leas ⁇ one full nes ⁇ hole 1 of each group 2 (which comprise a full nes ⁇ hole 1 ) is removed.
  • step SI 2 the content of the a ⁇ leas ⁇ one removed nes ⁇ hole 1 is analysed.
  • the a ⁇ leas ⁇ one removed nes ⁇ hole 1 is sen ⁇ ⁇ o a laboratory for the analysis, preferably via postal mail.
  • the analysis is performed for example by microscopy, DNA analysis, chromatography, spectrometry, or other.
  • the DNA analysis can be for example DNA sequencing of the content of the a ⁇ leas ⁇ one removed nes ⁇ hole 1.
  • the analysis is performed ⁇ o identify the plants of the pollen and/or nectar stored in the removed nes ⁇ hole 1 and/or ⁇ o identify contaminants in the content of the removed nes ⁇ hole 1.
  • the contaminants can be chemical contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides.
  • the contaminants can also be biological contaminants like parasites or a fungus.
  • an environment information is determined based on the analysis result of step S12.
  • the environment information is preferably an information about the plants or the biodiversity of the plants in the environment around the bee hotel 10 and/or an information about the environmental pollution.
  • the information about the environmental pollution is preferably determined based on the contaminants detected in the content of the removed a ⁇ leas ⁇ one nes ⁇ hole 1 in the analysis.
  • the information about the plants is preferably determined based on the plants identified from the analysed pollen and/or nectar of the removed a ⁇ leas ⁇ one nes ⁇ hole 1.
  • the step S13 is preferably performed by a server receiving the analysis result of step SI 2.
  • the analysis described in the second method works also with only one group of nes ⁇ holes 1 .
  • the analysis of two or more nes ⁇ holes 1 of different groups 2 allows ⁇ o have a more diversified pollen and/or nectar sample reflecting better the plants in the environment around the bee hotel 10 as different bee species prefer each different plants.
  • the environment information is preferably sen ⁇ ⁇ o the user, preferably ⁇ o the client software of the client device.
  • the steps Sl l to SI 3 are preferably repeated a ⁇ different content sample times of the year.
  • a content sample period are given ⁇ o a user so ⁇ ha ⁇ the nes ⁇ holes 1 are removed from the bee hotel 10 a ⁇ a content sample time within the given content sample period.
  • the content sample time is a reasonable and meaningful time of the year and the nes ⁇ holes 1 from different bee hotels 10 are removed a ⁇ the same time and are comparable.
  • the given content time period for removing the a ⁇ leas ⁇ one nes ⁇ hole 1 could be preferably a certain week of the year.
  • the content sample time or period is preferably chosen ⁇ o be a ⁇ the mid ⁇ o end of the flying period of a ⁇ leas ⁇ one solitary bee which would select one of the nes ⁇ holes 1 of the bee hotel 10.
  • the content sample period is preferably communicated ⁇ o the user via the client software. However, it is also possible ⁇ o communicate the content sample period ⁇ o the user with a manual or instructions sen ⁇ with the nes ⁇ holes 1 .
  • a plurality of bee hotels 10 are placed a ⁇ different locations.
  • the steps SI 1 ⁇ o SI 3 are repeated for each bee hotel 10 (preferably in the same content sample period).
  • the server collects the analysis results and/or the environment information of each bee hotel 10 a ⁇ the different locations.
  • a map with the one or more of the mentioned information can be realized by placing the respective information on the respective locations of the bee hotel 10 on the map.
  • the environment information of step S3 and/or S13can also contain recommendations ⁇ o improve the environment for solitary bees.
  • the environment information can further comprise a recommendation how ⁇ o improve the environment (recommendation information).
  • the recommendation information could include recommendation on how ⁇ o increase the presence of bees in general or of a certain bee species.
  • the recommendation can be planting in the environment certain plants which bees in general or the specific bees whose presence shall be increased, like.
  • the recommendation can be planting in the environment certain plants which bees in general or the specific bees whose presence shall be increased, like.
  • the recommendation could also be to reduce certain pesticides in the environment.
  • the recommendation information could also how to increase the biodiversity.
  • the recommendation information can be planting in the environment certain plants which are currently missing for a good biodiversity.
  • the client can select among different types of recommendation information, e.g. recommendation information how to increase missing bee types, recommendation information how to increase the biodiversity of plants, ....
  • the environment information of S3 and/or SI 3 or the presence information of S2 sen ⁇ ⁇ o the user or the client device of the user contains further comparison information.
  • the comparison information is preferably retrieved from the environment information or presence information from af leas ⁇ one bee hotel 10 nearby, e.g. the bee hotel 10 being within a certain radius of the bee hotel 10 to whose user the information is sent or of a number of bee hotels 10 being closest to the bee hotel 10.
  • the user has an incentive to improve the situation to get better results than other bee hotels 10 around.
  • the bee hotel 10 can be placed in private gardens or in schools to teach about solitary bees.
  • the users can learn something about their environment and can maybe improve the environment based on the presence information or environment information received.
  • the bee hotel 10 can also have a professional context.
  • the bee hotel 10 allows to collect the pollen of a small environment around the bee hotel 10 and allows thus to make conclusions about a small and well-defined area around the bee hotel 10 (normally a radius of 350 m).
  • An analysis of pollen of a beehive of honeybees have normally pollen of a radius of 1500 m and might mix the environment information of the property of the user with neighbouring environment information.
  • two professional applications will be explained.
  • a water company is interested in surveying an area from which the water is retrieved. This is traditionally done by getting samples of the retrieved water. However, many contaminants of the environment get only after long times info the ground wafer and thus ⁇ o the wafer used. Thus, a contamination of the environment is defected only, when if is already too late. Therefore, the present invention allows ⁇ o place the bee hotel 10 in the relevant area.
  • the solitary bee of the bee hotel 10 collect pollen from the area of interest and the collected pollen are stored in the nesf holes 1 of the bee hotel 10. By analysing the pollen of the removed nesf holes 1 , contaminants in the environment like pesticides, heavy metals, etc. can be defected a ⁇ a much earlier stage.
  • the pollen collected by the solitary bees all over the environment are much more representative than the wafer samples a ⁇ one or two spots in the area. Due ⁇ o the small range of the solitary bees, the origin of the contamination can also be quickly found. The wafer company can intervene early and avoid that the contaminants get info the ground wafer.
  • the system can also be of interest ⁇ o control biological farmers that they are no ⁇ using pesticides. Many more applications are possible. It should be understood ⁇ ha ⁇ the present invention is no ⁇ limited ⁇ o the described embodiments and ⁇ ha ⁇ variations can be applied without going outside of the scope of the claims.

Landscapes

  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Environmental Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Husbandry (AREA)
  • Biodiversity & Conservation Biology (AREA)
  • Catching Or Destruction (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un procédé d'analyse d'abeilles solitaires dans un environnement comprenant les étapes suivantes : fourniture d'un dispositif d'accueil d'abeilles solitaires (10) dans l'environnement (S0), le dispositif d'accueil d'abeilles solitaires (10) comprenant une pluralité de trous d'accueil (1), la pluralité de trous d'accueil (1) comprenant au moins deux groupes (2) différents de trous d'accueil (1), chaque groupe (2) de trous d'accueil (1) comprenant une pluralité de trous d'accueil (1), chaque trou d'accueil (1) du même groupe (2) ayant le même diamètre, les trous d'accueil (2) de différents groupes (2) se distinguant dans leur diamètre, déterminant des informations d'occupation par groupe (2) de trous d'accueil (1) (S1) ; déterminant des informations de présence concernant la présence de différentes espèces d'abeilles solitaires dans l'environnement sur la base des informations d'occupation. 10
EP21823268.4A 2020-11-30 2021-11-30 Dispositif pédagogique et scientifique d'accueil d'abeilles solitaires afin d'évaluer la qualité de l'environnement Pending EP4250914A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP20210711.6A EP4005377A1 (fr) 2020-11-30 2020-11-30 Dispositif pédagogique et scientifique pour la nidification des abeilles solitaires pour évaluer la qualité de l'environnement
PCT/EP2021/083514 WO2022112588A1 (fr) 2020-11-30 2021-11-30 Dispositif pédagogique et scientifique d'accueil d'abeilles solitaires afin d'évaluer la qualité de l'environnement

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4250914A1 true EP4250914A1 (fr) 2023-10-04

Family

ID=73646231

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20210711.6A Withdrawn EP4005377A1 (fr) 2020-11-30 2020-11-30 Dispositif pédagogique et scientifique pour la nidification des abeilles solitaires pour évaluer la qualité de l'environnement
EP21823268.4A Pending EP4250914A1 (fr) 2020-11-30 2021-11-30 Dispositif pédagogique et scientifique d'accueil d'abeilles solitaires afin d'évaluer la qualité de l'environnement

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20210711.6A Withdrawn EP4005377A1 (fr) 2020-11-30 2020-11-30 Dispositif pédagogique et scientifique pour la nidification des abeilles solitaires pour évaluer la qualité de l'environnement

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (2) EP4005377A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2022112588A1 (fr)

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE8812122U1 (de) * 1988-09-26 1988-12-08 Fockenberg, Volker, 4270 Dorsten Nistkasten für solitär lebende Bienen und Wespen
DE29814913U1 (de) 1998-08-20 1999-01-07 Ciba, Konrad, 66482 Zweibrücken Halterung mit Vorrichtung zum Eintreiben eines Sonnen, Garten- oder Marktschirmes, ins Erdreich
US6364738B1 (en) 2000-11-30 2002-04-02 The United States Of America As Respresented By The Secretary Of Agriculture Solitary bee nesting block
CN101453887A (zh) * 2006-03-17 2009-06-10 马修·詹姆斯·阿兰 用于蜂的便携式现场培养箱和蜂巢
US7959486B1 (en) 2009-02-11 2011-06-14 Lee Chester R Native bee propagation pole and method of use
DE202010004258U1 (de) * 2010-03-27 2010-06-24 Finger, Marcus Wildbienenhaus mit Beobachtungsstation Kunststoffglassichtfenster
US8517793B2 (en) * 2011-05-26 2013-08-27 Robert George Weeden Pollen bee nest
US20180255748A1 (en) 2017-03-07 2018-09-13 Candy Lee Vanderhoff Solitary Bee Nesting Shelter
WO2018184014A1 (fr) * 2017-03-31 2018-10-04 The Bee Corp. Systèmes de communication et de commande et procédés de surveillance d'informations concernant une pluralité de ruches
WO2020162926A1 (fr) 2019-02-06 2020-08-13 Ingenueering, Llc Système de surveillance d'insectes et de créatures

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP4005377A1 (fr) 2022-06-01
WO2022112588A1 (fr) 2022-06-02

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
Staab et al. Trap nests for bees and wasps to analyse trophic interactions in changing environments—A systematic overview and user guide
Kaluza et al. Social bees are fitter in more biodiverse environments
Roy et al. Focal plant observations as a standardised method for pollinator monitoring: Opportunities and limitations for mass participation citizen science
Unsicker et al. Plant species richness in montane grasslands affects the fitness of a generalist grasshopper species
Devaux et al. Constraints imposed by pollinator behaviour on the ecology and evolution of plant mating systems
Buchholz et al. Urbanisation modulates plant-pollinator interactions in invasive vs. native plant species
Rowe et al. Flower traits associated with the visitation patterns of bees
Morris et al. Food web structure changes with elevation but not rainforest stratum
Silva et al. Scale-dependence of processes structuring dung beetle metacommunities using functional diversity and community deconstruction approaches
Wignall et al. Exploitative competition and displacement mediated by eusocial bees: experimental evidence in a wild pollinator community
Cereghino et al. Ant–plant mutualisms promote functional diversity in phytotelm communities
Lázaro et al. Impacts of beekeeping on wild bee diversity and pollination networks in the Aegean Archipelago
Davison et al. Discrete or indiscrete? Redefining the colour polymorphism of the land snail Cepaea nemoralis
Harrap et al. Floral humidity in flowering plants: a preliminary survey
Campan et al. Discrimination of closed shapes by two species of bee, Apis mellifera and Megachile rotundata
Jacobs et al. Green roofs and pollinators, useful green spots for some wild bee species (Hymenoptera: Anthophila), but not so much for hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphidae)
Brant et al. There must bee a better way: a review of published urban bee literature and suggested topics for future study
Cornelissen et al. How to catch a small beetle: Top tips for visually screening honey bee colonies for small hive beetles
Osorio et al. Local and landscape effects in a host–parasitoid interaction network along a forest–cropland gradient
Janovský et al. Conspecific and heterospecific plant densities at small-scale can drive plant-pollinator interactions
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) et al. Analysis of background variability of honey bee colony size
Brodschneider et al. CSI pollen: diversity of honey bee collected pollen studied by citizen scientists
Bienefeld et al. A novel method for undisturbed long-term observation of honey bee (Apis mellifera) behavior–illustrated by hygienic behavior towards varroa infestation
Rappa et al. Structural elements enhanced by retention forestry promote forest and non-forest specialist bees and wasps
Anderson et al. BYO Bees: Managing wild bee biodiversity in urban greenspaces

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: UNKNOWN

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20230331

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

DAV Request for validation of the european patent (deleted)
DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)