An entomologist uses DNA barcoding to identify pollinator species and finds that out of 240 insect samples, 35% are bees, 40% are wasps, and the rest are beetles. If 20% of the wasps and 15% of the beetles are found to carry rare pollen strains, how many insects in total carry these rare pollen strains?

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:34:24 +0000

**An entomologist uses DNA barcoding to identify pollinator species and finds that out of 240 insect samples, 35% are bees, 40% are wasps, and the rest are beetles. If 20% of the wasps and 15% of the beetles carry rare pollen strains, how many insects in total carry these rare pollen strains?** In today’s growing conversation around pollinator health and ecosystem resilience, new insights are reshaping how scientists understand insect roles in nature. Recent field research using DNA barcoding has uncovered detailed patterns in pollinator species presence—and how these tiny creatures contribute to preserving biodiversity. The findings over 240 insect samples reveal a significant intersection between insect taxonomy and ecological monitoring, especially as rare pollen strains are increasingly linked to ecosystem stability and plant reproduction. ### Why DNA barcoding is gaining momentum in pollinator research The rise of DNA barcoding reflects a broader shift toward precision in ecological science. By analyzing short, standardized gene sequences, researchers can identify species with high accuracy—even from small or damaged specimens. This method is transforming traditional insect sampling, making it faster and more reliable than manual classification. In agricultural and conservation circles, this technology offers clearer data to guide pollinator protection strategies. With increasing awareness of declining pollinator populations, such accurate, scalable research is becoming essential for informed conservation and policy decisions across the United States.