1
|
Johnson BL, Prouty C, Jack CJ, Stuhl C, Ellis JD. Developing a method to rear Varroa destructor in vitro. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2024; 92:795-808. [PMID: 38478141 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-024-00905-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is a significant mite pest of western honey bees (Apis mellifera). Developing a method to rear and maintain populations of V. destructor in vitro would provide year-round access to the mites, allowing scientists to study their biology, behavior, and control more rapidly. In this study, we determined the impact of various rearing parameters on V. destructor survival and reproduction in vitro. This was done by collecting V. destructor from colonies, placing them in gelatin capsules containing honey bee larvae, and manipulating the following conditions experimentally: rearing temperature, colony source of honey bee larva, behavioral/developmental stages of V. destructor and honey bee larva, and mite:bee larva ratio. Varroa destructor survival was significantly impacted by temperature, colony source of larvae and mite behavioral stage. In addition, V. destructor reproduction was significantly impacted by mite: larva ratio, larval developmental stage, colony source of larva, and temperature. The following conditions optimized mite survival and reproduction in vitro: using a 4:1 mite:larva ratio, beginning the study with late stage uncapped larvae, using mites collected from adult bees, maintaining the rearing temperature at 34.5° C, and screening larval colony source. Ultimately, this research can be used to improve V. destructor in vitro rearing programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brynn L Johnson
- Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory, Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, 32611, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Cody Prouty
- Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory, Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, 32611, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Cameron J Jack
- Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory, Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, 32611, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Charles Stuhl
- Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, USDA-ARS, 32608, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - James D Ellis
- Honey Bee Research and Extension Laboratory, Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, 32611, Gainesville, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vickram S, Rohini K, Anbarasu K, Dey N, Jeyanthi P, Thanigaivel S, Issac PK, Arockiaraj J. Semenogelin, a coagulum macromolecule monitoring factor involved in the first step of fertilization: A prospective review. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 209:951-962. [PMID: 35447263 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.04.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Human male infertility affects approximately 1/10 couples worldwide, and its prevalence is found more in developed countries. Along with sperm cells, the secretions of the prostate, seminal vesicle and epididymis plays a major role in proper fertilization. Many studies have proven the functions of seminal vesicle secretions, especially semenogelin protein, as an optimiser for fertilization. Semenogelin provides the structural components for coagulum formation after ejaculation. It binds with eppin and is found to have major functions like motility of sperm, transporting the sperm safely in the immune rich female reproductive tract until the sperm cells reach the egg intact. The capacitation process is essential for proper fertilization and semenogelin involved in mediating capacitation in time. Also, it has control of events towards the first step in the fertilization process. It is a Zn ions binding protein, and Zn ions act as a cofactor that helps in the proper motility of sperm cells. Therefore, any imbalance in protein that automatically affect sperm physiology and fertility status. This review sheds a comprehensive and critical view on the significant functions of semenogelin in fertilization. This review can open up advanced proteomics research on semenogelin towards unravelling molecular mechanisms in fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sundaram Vickram
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Karunakaran Rohini
- Unit of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University, Semeling, Bedong 08100, Kedah, Malaysia
| | - Krishnan Anbarasu
- Department of Bioinformatics, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nibedita Dey
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Palanivelu Jeyanthi
- Department of Biotechnology, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 062, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sundaram Thanigaivel
- Department of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Issac
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Integrative Physiology, Institute of Biotechnology, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Thandalam, Chennai 602 105, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science and Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, 603 203 Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Standard Methods for Dissection of Varroa destructor Females. INSECTS 2021; 13:insects13010037. [PMID: 35055880 PMCID: PMC8781925 DOI: 10.3390/insects13010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Varroa destructor (Anderson and Trueman) is known as a major pest of Apis mellifera L, especially in the Northern Hemisphere where its effects can be deleterious. As an obligate parasite, this mite relies entirely on its host to reproduce and complete its cycle. Studies focusing on isolated organs are needed to better comprehend this organism. To conduct such targeted molecular or physiological studies, the dissection of V. destructor mites is crucial as it allows the extraction of specific organs. Here, we propose a technical article showing detailed steps of females V. destructor dissection, illustrated with pictures and videos. These illustrated guidelines will represent a helpful tool to go further in V. destructor research.
Collapse
|
4
|
Vilarem C, Piou V, Vogelweith F, Vétillard A. Varroa destructor from the Laboratory to the Field: Control, Biocontrol and IPM Perspectives-A Review. INSECTS 2021; 12:800. [PMID: 34564240 PMCID: PMC8465918 DOI: 10.3390/insects12090800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is a real challenger for beekeepers and scientists: fragile out of the hive, tenacious inside a bee colony. From all the research done on the topic, we have learned that a better understanding of this organism in its relationship with the bee but also for itself is necessary. Its biology relies mostly on semiochemicals for reproduction, nutrition, or orientation. Many treatments have been developed over the years based on hard or soft acaricides or even on biocontrol techniques. To date, no real sustainable solution exists to reduce the pressure of the mite without creating resistances or harming honeybees. Consequently, the development of alternative disruptive tools against the parasitic life cycle remains open. It requires the combination of both laboratory and field results through a holistic approach based on health biomarkers. Here, we advocate for a more integrative vision of V. destructor research, where in vitro and field studies are more systematically compared and compiled. Therefore, after a brief state-of-the-art about the mite's life cycle, we discuss what has been done and what can be done from the laboratory to the field against V. destructor through an integrative approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Vilarem
- Laboratoire Evolution et Diversité Biologique, UMR5174, CNRS-Université de Toulouse III-IRD, INU Jean-François Champollion, Université Paul Sabatier, 31077 Toulouse, France; (C.V.); (V.P.)
- M2i Biocontrol–Entreprise SAS, 46140 Parnac, France;
| | - Vincent Piou
- Laboratoire Evolution et Diversité Biologique, UMR5174, CNRS-Université de Toulouse III-IRD, INU Jean-François Champollion, Université Paul Sabatier, 31077 Toulouse, France; (C.V.); (V.P.)
| | | | - Angélique Vétillard
- Laboratoire Evolution et Diversité Biologique, UMR5174, CNRS-Université de Toulouse III-IRD, INU Jean-François Champollion, Université Paul Sabatier, 31077 Toulouse, France; (C.V.); (V.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Varroa destructor: A Complex Parasite, Crippling Honey Bees Worldwide. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:592-606. [PMID: 32456963 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The parasitic mite, Varroa destructor, has shaken the beekeeping and pollination industries since its spread from its native host, the Asian honey bee (Apis cerana), to the naïve European honey bee (Apis mellifera) used commercially for pollination and honey production around the globe. Varroa is the greatest threat to honey bee health. Worrying observations include increasing acaricide resistance in the varroa population and sinking economic treatment thresholds, suggesting that the mites or their vectored viruses are becoming more virulent. Highly infested weak colonies facilitate mite dispersal and disease transmission to stronger and healthier colonies. Here, we review recent developments in the biology, pathology, and management of varroa, and integrate older knowledge that is less well known.
Collapse
|
6
|
Jack CJ, Dai PL, van Santen E, Ellis JD. Comparing four methods of rearing Varroa destructor in vitro. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2020; 80:463-476. [PMID: 32249394 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-020-00488-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The parasitic mite Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman continues to devastate western honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) colonies throughout most of the world where they are managed. The development of a method to rear Varroa in vitro would allow for year-round Varroa research, rapidly advancing our progress towards controlling the mite. We created two separate experiments to address this objective. First, we determined which of four in vitro rearing methods yields the greatest number of Varroa offspring. Second, we attempted to improve the rearing rates achieved with that method. The four methods tested included (1) rearing Varroa on honey bee pupae in gelatin capsules, (2) rearing Varroa on in vitro-reared honey bees, (3) group rearing Varroa on honey bee pupae in Petri dishes, and (4) providing Varroa a bee-derived diet. The number of reproducing females and the number of fully mature offspring were significantly higher in the gelatin capsules maintained at 75% RH than in any other method. A 2 × 3 full factorial design was used to test combinations of gelatin capsule size (6 and 7 mm diameter) and relative humidity (65, 75, or 85%) on Varroa rearing success. Varroa reproduction and survival were significantly higher in 7-mm-diameter gelatin capsules maintained at 75% RH than in those maintained in 6-mm capsules and at the other humidities. By identifying factors that influence Varroa reproductive success in vitro, this work provides an important foundation for the development of future rearing protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron J Jack
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Steinmetz Hall, Natural Area Dr., P.O. Box 110620, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0620, USA.
| | - Ping-Li Dai
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Steinmetz Hall, Natural Area Dr., P.O. Box 110620, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0620, USA
- Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
| | - Edzard van Santen
- Statistical Consulting Unit and Agronomy Department, Institute for Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, McCarty Hall, P.O. Box 110500, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0500, USA
| | - James D Ellis
- Entomology and Nematology Department, University of Florida, Steinmetz Hall, Natural Area Dr., P.O. Box 110620, Gainesville, FL, 32611-0620, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Phokasem P, de Guzman LI, Khongphinitbunjong K, Frake AM, Chantawannakul P. Feeding by Tropilaelaps mercedesae on pre- and post-capped brood increases damage to Apis mellifera colonies. Sci Rep 2019; 9:13044. [PMID: 31506594 PMCID: PMC6737106 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49662-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tropilaelaps mercedesae parasitism can cause Apis mellifera colony mortality in Asia. Here, we report for the first time that tropilaelaps mites feed on both pre- and post-capped stages of honey bees. Feeding on pre-capped brood may extend their survival outside capped brood cells, especially in areas where brood production is year-round. In this study, we examined the types of injury inflicted by tropilaelaps mites on different stages of honey bees, the survival of adult honey bees, and level of honey bee viruses in 4th instar larvae and prepupae. The injuries inflicted on different developing honey bee stages were visualised by staining with trypan blue. Among pre-capped stages, 4th instar larvae sustained the highest number of wounds (4.6 ± 0.5/larva) while 2nd-3rd larval instars had at least two wounds. Consequently, wounds were evident on uninfested capped brood (5th-6th instar larvae = 3.91 ± 0.64 wounds; prepupae = 5.25 ± 0.73 wounds). Tropilaelaps mite infestations resulted in 3.4- and 6-fold increases in the number of wounds in 5th-6th instar larvae and prepupae as compared to uninfested capped brood, respectively. When wound-inflicted prepupae metamorphosed to white-eyed pupae, all wound scars disappeared with the exuviae. This healing of wounds contributed to the reduction of the number of wounds (≤10) observed on the different pupal stages. Transmission of mite-borne virus such as Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) was also enhanced by mites feeding on early larval stages. DWV and Black Queen Cell Virus (BQCV) were detected in all 4th instar larvae and prepupae analysed. However, viral levels were more pronounced in scarred 4th instar larvae and infested prepupae. The remarkably high numbers of wounds and viral load on scarred or infested developing honey bees may have caused significant weight loss and extensive injuries observed on the abdomen, wings, legs, proboscis and antennae of adult honey bees. Together, the survival of infested honey bees was significantly compromised. This study demonstrates the ability of tropilaelaps mites to inflict profound damage on A. mellifera hosts. Effective management approaches need to be developed to mitigate tropilaelaps mite problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patcharin Phokasem
- Bee Protection Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
- Graduate School, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Lilia I de Guzman
- USDA-ARS, Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics and Physiology Laboratory, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70820, USA.
| | | | - Amanda M Frake
- USDA-ARS, Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics and Physiology Laboratory, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70820, USA
| | - Panuwan Chantawannakul
- Bee Protection Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
- Environmental Science Research Center, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Evans JD, Cook SC. Genetics and physiology of Varroa mites. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2018; 26:130-135. [PMID: 29764652 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is the primary biological threat to domesticated honey bee colonies in much of the world, impacting host fitness both directly and by transmitting RNA viruses. Genomic, proteomic, and functional-genetic resources provide a framework for Varroa biology. When coupled with physiological analyses of development, host finding, and reproduction, these resources reveal general traits of arthropods and offer new strategies for mite control. Efforts to develop novel controls are focused on efficacy, efficient delivery, and the avoidance of both host impacts and the swift evolution of resistance by mites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jay D Evans
- USDA-ARS Bee Research Lab, BARC-E Bldg. 306 Center Road, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.
| | - Steven C Cook
- USDA-ARS Bee Research Lab, BARC-E Bldg. 306 Center Road, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Häußermann CK, Ziegelmann B, Rosenkranz P. Spermatozoa production in male Varroa destructor and its impact on reproduction in worker brood of Apis mellifera. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2018; 74:43-54. [PMID: 29392466 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-018-0216-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Reproduction in Varroa destructor exclusively takes place within the sealed honey bee brood cell and is, therefore, limited by the duration of the postcapping period. Oogenesis, ontogenetic development and mating must be optimized to ensure the production of as many mated daughter mites as possible. One adult male mite has to mate with up to five sister mites and transfer 30-40 spermatozoa to each female. We analyzed the production and transfer of male spermatozoa during a reproductive cycle by counting all spermatozoa in the genital tracts of the male and daughter mites in 80 worker brood cells at defined times after cell capping. We could show that spermatozoa production in male mites is an ongoing process throughout their adult lifetime starting after the adult molt. The spermatozoa are transferred to the females in an early non-capacitated stage and require further maturation within the female's genital tract. Our study points out that a Varroa male has at any time in the brood cell enough spermatozoa to inseminate all daughter mites but does not waste energy in producing a big surplus. In total one male produced, on average, 125 spermatozoa during a reproductive cycle in worker brood which is sufficient for successful matings with at least three daughter mites. Spermiogenesis in Varroa males represents therefore a further adaptation to the limited time available for reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bettina Ziegelmann
- Apicultural State Institute, University of Hohenheim, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Peter Rosenkranz
- Apicultural State Institute, University of Hohenheim, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| |
Collapse
|