R (Remco) Ploeg MSc

The incredibly diverse world of insects has always fascinated me. No other species group can compete with the richness in species, appearances, and survival strategies found in insects. Moreover, insects play a key role in the majority of terrestrial ecosystems. For these reasons, insects are an inexhaustible subject of study. In my research, I focus on pollinators, a good example of a diverse and specialized group that fulfills an important role in both natural and agricultural systems. This role is however threatened by human activities. Although the causes of, and solutions to pollinator decline are relatively well-known, the impact of pollinator restoration efforts remains limited. To contribute to a better protection of pollinator communities and the plants they support, I investigate how the effectiveness of restoration practices can be improved. In doing so, I look at ecological, spatial, as well as social aspects of pollinator restoration projects and test how these aspects influence the effectiveness of restoration measures in restoring threatened pollinator and plant populations.