A recent research conducted by the University of Washington finds that airborne chemicals in fossil fuels disrupt the pollination process of flowers, which alters the smell of the flowers. Not only human beings are being affected by this, but also it is posing a significant threat to insects as they have a hard time locating flowers.
Researcher Jeff Riffell said: “Pollution from human activity is altering the chemical composition of critical scent cues, and altering it to such an extent that the pollinators can no longer recognise it and respond to it."
According to the scientists of the University of Washington nitrate radicals known as NO3, originating from various energy sources, are responsible for the scent-masking phenomenon, says Geo News.
"A rose smells like a diverse bouquet made of different kinds of chemicals. This holds for practically all flowers. Everyone has a distinct aroma composed of a certain chemical formula," added researcher Riffell.
The researchers said that the insects identify the scent of flowers through a special procedure. Now, many insects cannot detect the scent of flowers in urban environments due to the presence of chemical compounds in flowers.
"The NO3 is reducing the reach of a flower's scent — how far its scent can travel and attract a pollinator before it gets broken down and is undetectable," said Riffell.
Riffell said that about 75% of over 240,000 documented flowering plants need insect intervention — and that about 70 species of pollinators are endangered or threatened.
The researcher urged the authorities to take the initiative to address issues affecting plant-pollinator interactions using their research findings.