Which of the following is a factor that can negatively impact bee populations?

Pesticides are known to have a detrimental effect on bee populations. Specifically, certain chemicals used in agricultural practices can be toxic to bees and may disrupt their behavior, reproduction, and overall health. Exposure to these substances can lead to increased mortality rates, weakened immune systems, and impaired foraging abilities, ultimately contributing to colony declines.

In contrast, increased flower growth typically provides more food resources for bees, helping to sustain and potentially bolster their populations. Higher temperatures can influence bee behavior and may help some species thrive, though excessively high temperatures can also pose risks. Urbanization may fragment habitats but can also create opportunities for bees if urban areas include bee-friendly plants. Therefore, pesticides stand out as a clear negative factor influencing bee populations due to their direct toxicity and broad-ranging impacts on individual bees and colonies as a whole.