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Rein C, Grünke M, Traynor K, Rosenkranz P. From consumption to excretion: Lithium concentrations in honey bees (Apis mellifera) after lithium chloride application and time-dependent effects on Varroa destructor. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 39016664 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Owing to its systemic mode-of-action and ease of application, lithium chloride (LiCl) is an ideal varroacide for the control of Varroa destructor infestations in honey bee colonies. To better understand how LiCl functions within a colony, we screened different parts of honey bee anatomy for lithium accumulation. We wanted to elucidate the time-dependent effects of LiCl on V. destructor and its metabolism within honey bees when they were fed continuous LiCl treatments, as well as evaluate potential adverse effects such as accumulation in the hypopharyngeal glands of nurse bees, which could negatively impact queens and larvae. RESULTS Cage experiments reveal rapid acaricidal onset, with >95% mite mortality within 48 h of treatment. Bee hemolymph analysis supports these observations, showing a rapid increase in lithium concentration within 12 h of treatment, followed by stabilization at a constant level. Lithium accumulates in the rectum of caged bees (≤475.5 mg kg-1 after 7 days of feeding 50 mm LiCl), reflecting the bees' metabolic and excretion process. Despite concerns about potential accumulation in hypopharyngeal glands, low lithium levels of only 0.52 mg kg-1 suggest minimal risk to the queen and 1st- and 2nd-instar larvae. Cessation of LiCl treatment results in a rapid decline in mite mortality in the first 5 days, which increases again thereafter, resulting in mite mortality of 77-90% after 10 days. CONCLUSION These findings help optimize LiCl application in colonies to achieve high Varroa mortality without unwanted adverse effects and provide important baseline data for future registration. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Rein
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Markus Grünke
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Kirsten Traynor
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Peter Rosenkranz
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
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Urcan AC, Criste AD, Bobiș O, Cornea-Cipcigan M, Giurgiu AI, Dezmirean DS. Evaluation of Functional Properties of Some Lactic Acid Bacteria Strains for Probiotic Applications in Apiculture. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1249. [PMID: 38930631 PMCID: PMC11205645 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This study evaluates the suitability of three lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains-Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Apilactobacillus kunkeei-for use as probiotics in apiculture. Given the decline in bee populations due to pathogens and environmental stressors, sustainable alternatives to conventional treatments are necessary. This study aimed to assess the potential of these LAB strains in a probiotic formulation for bees through various in vitro tests, including co-culture interactions, biofilm formation, auto-aggregation, antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity, antibiotic susceptibility, and resistance to high osmotic concentrations. This study aimed to assess both the individual effects of the strains and their combined effects, referred to as the LAB mix. Results indicated no mutual antagonistic activity among the LAB strains, demonstrating their compatibility with multi-strain probiotic formulations. The LAB strains showed significant survival rates under high osmotic stress and simulated gastrointestinal conditions. The LAB mix displayed enhanced biofilm formation, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial efficacy against different bacterial strains. These findings suggest that a probiotic formulation containing these LAB strains could be used for a probiotic formulation, offering a promising approach to mitigating the negative effects of pathogens. Future research should focus on in vivo studies to validate the efficacy of these probiotic bacteria in improving bee health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Cristina Urcan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.C.U.); (A.D.C.)
| | - Adriana Dalila Criste
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.C.U.); (A.D.C.)
| | - Otilia Bobiș
- Department of Apiculture and Sericulture, Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (O.B.); (D.S.D.)
| | - Mihaiela Cornea-Cipcigan
- Department of Horticulture and Landscaping, Faculty of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Alexandru-Ioan Giurgiu
- Department of Apiculture and Sericulture, Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (O.B.); (D.S.D.)
| | - Daniel Severus Dezmirean
- Department of Apiculture and Sericulture, Faculty of Animal Science and Biotechnologies, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (O.B.); (D.S.D.)
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Sipos T, Glavák C, Turbók J, Somfalvi-Tóth K, Donkó T, Keszthelyi S. Analysis of X-ray irradiation effects on the mortality values and hemolymph immune cell composition of Apis mellifera and its parasite, Varroa destructor. J Invertebr Pathol 2024; 204:108109. [PMID: 38631557 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2024.108109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is one of the most destructive enemies of the honey bee, Apis mellifera all around the world. Several control methods are known to control V. destructor, but the efficacy of several alternative control methods remains unexplored. Irradiation can be one of these unknown solutions but before practical application, the effectiveness, and the physiological effects of ionizing radiation on the host and the parasite are waiting to be tested. Therefore, the objective of our study was to investigate the effects of different doses (15, 50, 100, and 150 Gy) of high-energy X-ray irradiation through mortality rates and hemocyte composition changes in A. mellifera workers and record the mortality rates of the parasite. The mortality rate was recorded during short-term (12, 24, and 48 h) and long-term periods (3, 6, 12, 18, and 24d). The sensitivity of the host and the parasite in case of the higher doses of radiation tested (50, 100, and 150 Gy) been demonstrated by total mortality of the host and 90 % of its parasite has been observed on the 18th day after the irradiation. V. destructor showed higher sensitivity (1.52-times higher than the adult honey bee workers) at the lowest dose (15 Gy). A. mellifera hemocytes were influenced significantly by radiation dosage and the elapsed time after treatment. The higher radiation doses increased plasmatocyte numbers in parallel with the decrease in prohemocyte numbers. On the contrary, the numbers of granulocytes and oencoytes increased in the treated samples, but the putative effects of the different dosages on the recorded number of these hemocyte types could not be statistically proven. In summary, based on the outcome of our study X-ray irradiation can be deemed an effective tool for controlling phoretic V. destructor. However, further research is needed to understand the physiological response of the affected organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamás Sipos
- Institute of Agronomy, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kaposvár Campus, Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary; Institute for Farm Animal Gene Conservation, National Centre for Biodiversity and Gene Conservation, H-2100 Gödöllő, Hungary.
| | - Csaba Glavák
- Moritz Kaposi Teaching Hospital, Dr. József Baka Diagnostic, Radiation Oncology, Research and Teaching Center, Guba Sandor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | - Janka Turbók
- Department of Physiology and Animal Health, Institute of Physiology and Nutrition, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kaposvár Campus, Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | - Katalin Somfalvi-Tóth
- Institute of Agronomy, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kaposvár Campus, Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | - Tamás Donkó
- Medicopus Nonprofit Ltd., Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
| | - Sándor Keszthelyi
- Institute of Agronomy, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kaposvár Campus, Guba Sándor str. 40., H-7400 Kaposvár, Hungary.
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Sprau L, Traynor K, Gessler B, Hasselmann M, Rosenkranz P. Mite non-reproduction is not a consequence of the brood removal behavior of varroa sensitive hygiene honey bee colonies ( Apis mellifera). Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e11595. [PMID: 38919649 PMCID: PMC11199085 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.11595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
A sustainable solution to the global threat of the Varroa destructor mite is the selection of varroa-resistant honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies. Both "mite non-reproduction" (MNR) and "varroa sensitive hygiene" (VSH) appear to be promising selection traits for achieving the goal of a resistant honey bee. MNR describes colonies that have a high number of non-reproductive mites (no offspring, no males, or delayed development of mite offspring). High numbers of non-reproductive mites have been observed in selected colonies, but the mechanism behind this trait has not yet been identified. The specialized hygienic behavior of selected honey bees, called VSH, is the removal of varroa-infested brood. These traits were thought to be linked by VSH bees preferentially removing reproductive varroa females leaving only non-reproductive mites behind in cells and thus creating colonies with high levels of MNR. To further investigate this link, we used an experimental setup and data sets from a four-year selection project designed to breed for MNR and VSH colonies. In addition, we sought to answer the question of whether non-reproductive mites are a direct consequence of worker removal behavior. To test this, we artificially induced removal behavior, and after providing the mite with enough time to re-enter another cell, we opened all capped cells, relocated the mites, and evaluated their reproduction. As shown in previous studies and in this study, VSH had no effect on MNR levels. Also, the induced removal behavior did not lead to non-reproduction in the subsequent reproductive cycle post interruption. We thus concluded that breeding for non-reproductive mites does not automatically breed for VSH behavior and worker removal behavior does not cause subsequent reproductive failure of the mites forced to flee and find a new cell for reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Birgit Gessler
- Department of Livestock Population Genomics, Institute of Animal ScienceUniversity of HohenheimStuttgartGermany
| | - Martin Hasselmann
- Department of Livestock Population Genomics, Institute of Animal ScienceUniversity of HohenheimStuttgartGermany
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McGruddy RA, Smeele ZE, Manley B, Masucci JD, Haywood J, Lester PJ. RNA interference as a next-generation control method for suppressing Varroa destructor reproduction in honey bee (Apis mellifera) hives. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2024. [PMID: 38801186 DOI: 10.1002/ps.8193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) is considered to be the greatest threat to apiculture worldwide. RNA interference (RNAi) using double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) as a gene silencing mechanism has emerged as a next-generation strategy for mite control. RESULTS We explored the impact of a dsRNA biopesticide, named vadescana, designed to silence the calmodulin gene in Varroa, on mite fitness in mini-hives housed in a laboratory. Two dosages were tested: 2 g/L dsRNA and 8 g/L dsRNA. Vadescana appeared to have no effect on mite survival, however, mite fertility was substantially reduced. The majority of foundress mites exposed to vadescana failed to produce any offspring. No dose-dependent effect of vadescana was observed, as both the low and high doses inhibited mite reproduction equally well in the mini-hives and neither dose impacted pupal survival of the honey bee. Approximately 95% of bee pupae were alive at uncapping across all treatment groups. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that vadescana has significant potential as an effective alternative to conventional methods for Varroa control, with broader implications for the utilization of RNAi as a next-generation tool in the management of pest species. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose A McGruddy
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Zoe E Smeele
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Brian Manley
- GreenLight Biosciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - James D Masucci
- GreenLight Biosciences, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, USA
| | - John Haywood
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Philip J Lester
- School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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Bartlett LJ, Alparslan S, Bruckner S, Delaney DA, Menz JF, Williams GR, Delaplane KS. Neonicotinoid exposure increases Varroa destructor (Mesostigmata: Varroidae) mite parasitism severity in honey bee colonies and is not mitigated by increased colony genetic diversity. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2024; 24:20. [PMID: 38805648 PMCID: PMC11132139 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieae056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Agrochemical exposure is a major contributor to ecological declines worldwide, including the loss of crucial pollinator species. In addition to direct toxicity, field-relevant doses of pesticides can increase species' vulnerabilities to other stressors, including parasites. Experimental field demonstrations of potential interactive effects of pesticides and additional stressors are rare, as are tests of mechanisms via which pollinators tolerate pesticides. Here, we controlled honey bee colony exposure to field-relevant concentrations of 2 neonicotinoid insecticides (clothianidin and thiamethoxam) in pollen and simultaneously manipulated intracolony genetic heterogeneity. We showed that exposure increased rates of Varroa destructor (Anderson and Trueman) parasitism and that while increased genetic heterogeneity overall improved survivability, it did not reduce the negative effect size of neonicotinoid exposure. This study is, to our knowledge, the first experimental field demonstration of how neonicotinoid exposure can increase V. destructor populations in honey bees and also demonstrates that colony genetic diversity cannot mitigate the effects of neonicotinoid pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis J Bartlett
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Suleyman Alparslan
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Selina Bruckner
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Deborah A Delaney
- Department of Entomology & Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 27695-7613, USA
| | - John F Menz
- Department of Entomology & Wildlife Ecology, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 27695-7613, USA
| | - Geoffrey R Williams
- Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
| | - Keith S Delaplane
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
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Walsh EM, Simone-Finstrom M. Current honey bee stressor investigations and mitigation methods in the United States and Canada. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2024; 24:19. [PMID: 38805646 PMCID: PMC11132128 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieae055] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Honey bees are the most important managed insect pollinators in the US and Canadian crop systems. However, the annual mortality of colonies in the past 15 years has been consistently higher than historical records. Because they are eusocial generalist pollinators and amenable to management, honey bees provide a unique opportunity to investigate a wide range of questions at molecular, organismal, and ecological scales. Here, the American Association of Professional Apiculturists (AAPA) and the Canadian Association of Professional Apiculturists (CAPA) created 2 collections of articles featuring investigations on micro and macro aspects of honey bee health, sociobiology, and management showcasing new applied research from diverse groups studying honey bees (Apis mellifera) in the United States and Canada. Research presented in this special issue includes examinations of abiotic and biotic stressors of honey bees, and evaluations and introductions of various stress mitigation measures that may be valuable to both scientists and the beekeeping community. These investigations from throughout the United States and Canada showcase the wide breadth of current work done and point out areas that need further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Walsh
- USDA-ARS Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics, and Physiology Unit, 1157 Ben Hur Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70820, USA
| | - Michael Simone-Finstrom
- USDA-ARS Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics, and Physiology Unit, 1157 Ben Hur Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70820, USA
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Quinlan GM, Grozinger CM. Evaluating the role of social context and environmental factors in mediating overwintering physiology in honey bees (Apis mellifera). J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb247314. [PMID: 38516936 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.247314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
In temperate climates, honey bees show strong phenotypic plasticity associated with seasonal changes. In summer, worker bees typically only survive for about a month and can be further classified as young nurse bees (which feed the developing brood) and older forager bees. In winter, brood production and foraging halt and the worker bees live for several months. These differences in task and longevity are reflected in their physiology, with summer nurses and long-lived winter bees typically having large fat bodies, high expression levels of vitellogenin (a longevity-, nutrition- and immune-related gene), and large provisioning glands in their head. The environmental factors (both within the colony and within the surrounding environment) that trigger this transition to long-lived winter bees are poorly understood. One theory is that winter bees are an extended nurse bee state, brought on by a reduction in nursing duties in autumn (i.e. lower brood area). We examined that theory here by assessing nurse bee physiology in both the summer and autumn, in colonies with varying levels of brood. We found that season is a better predictor of nurse bee physiology than brood area. This suggests that seasonal factors beyond brood area, such as pollen availability and colony demography, may be necessary for inducing the winter bee phenotype. This finding furthers our understanding of winter bee biology, which could have important implications for colony management for winter, a critical period for colony survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela M Quinlan
- Department of Entomology, Center for Pollinator Research, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Christina M Grozinger
- Department of Entomology, Center for Pollinator Research, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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Erdem E, Koç-İnak N, Rüstemoğlu M, İnak E. Geographical distribution of pyrethroid resistance mutations in Varroa destructor across Türkiye and a European overview. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2024; 92:309-321. [PMID: 38401013 PMCID: PMC11035437 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00879-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Varroa destructor Anderson & Trueman (Acari: Varroidae) is of paramount significance in modern beekeeping, with infestations presenting a primary challenge that directly influences colony health, productivity, and overall apicultural sustainability. In order to control this mite, many beekeepers rely on a limited number of approved synthetic acaricides, including the pyrethroids tau-fluvalinate, flumethrin and organophosphate coumaphos. However, the excessive use of these substances has led to the widespread development of resistance in various beekeeping areas globally. In the present study, the occurrence of resistance mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), the target-site of pyrethroids and coumaphos, respectively, was examined in Varroa populations collected throughout the southeastern and eastern Anatolia regions of Türkiye. All Varroa samples belonged to the Korean haplotype, and a very low genetic distance was observed based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences. No amino acid substitutions were determined at the key residues of AChE. On the other hand, three amino acid substitutions, (L925V/I/M), previously associated with pyrethroid resistance, were identified in nearly 80% of the Turkish populations. Importantly, L925M, the dominant mutation in the USA, was detected in Turkish Varroa populations for the first time. To gain a more comprehensive perspective, we conducted a systematic analysis of the distribution of pyrethroid resistance mutations across Europe, based on the previously reported data. Varroa populations from Mediterranean countries such as Türkiye, Spain, and Greece exhibited the highest frequency of resistance mutation. Revealing the occurrence and geographical distribution of pyrethroid resistance mutations in V. destructor populations across the country will enhance the development of more efficient strategies for mite management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esengül Erdem
- Plant Protection Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Şırnak University, Şirnak, Turkey
| | - Nafiye Koç-İnak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Altindag, 06070, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Rüstemoğlu
- Plant Protection Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Şırnak University, Şirnak, Turkey
| | - Emre İnak
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Ankara University, 06110, Ankara, Turkey.
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Mukogawa B, Nieh JC. The Varroa paradox: infestation levels and hygienic behavior in feral scutellata-hybrid and managed Apis mellifera ligustica honey bees. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1148. [PMID: 38212601 PMCID: PMC10784517 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-51071-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The Varroa destructor mite is a parasitic threat to managed and feral honey bee colonies around the world. Beekeepers use miticides to eliminate Varroa in commercial hives, but these chemicals can diminish bee health and increase miticide resistance. In contrast, feral honey bees have developed multiple ways to counteract mites without chemical treatment. We compared mite levels, grooming habits, and mite-biting behavior between feral Africanized honey bees (genomically verified Apis mellifera scutellata hybrids) and managed Italian honey bees (A. mellifera ligustica). Surprisingly, there was no difference in mite infestation levels between scutellata-hybrids and managed bees over one year despite the regular use of miticides in managed colonies. We also found no differences in the social immunity responses of the two groups, as measured by their hygienic habits (through worker brood pin-kill assays), self-grooming, and mite-biting behavior. However, we provide the first report that both scutellata-hybrids and managed honey bees bite off mite chemosensory forelegs, which the mites use to locate brood cells for reproduction, to a significantly greater degree than other legs (a twofold greater reduction in foreleg length relative to the most anterior legs). Such biting may impair mite reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Mukogawa
- Department of Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr. MC 0116, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - James C Nieh
- Department of Ecology, Behavior, and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr. MC 0116, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
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Warner S, Pokhrel LR, Akula SM, Ubah CS, Richards SL, Jensen H, Kearney GD. A scoping review on the effects of Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) on global honey bee decline. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167492. [PMID: 37778563 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167492] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Arguably the most ecologically and economically valuable pollinators worldwide, honey bees play a significant role in food production and enrich biodiversity through pollination. Varroa destructor is an invasive ectoparasitic mite that attacks and feeds on European honey bee, Apis mellifera. Because literature on the effectiveness and sustainability of various treatment modalities available for Varroa mite control in honey bee colonies are scattered, this scoping review was conducted to serve as a guiding document with a focus on: (1) identifying the detrimental impact Varroa mites have on the European honey bee; (2) determining current methods for Varroa mite control and their limitations; (3) examining current market landscape and key players in the pesticide market; and (4) identifying opportunities for more sustainable Varroa mite control methods. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, 397 articles published between 1998 and 2022 were screened; of which 65 articles were retained using inclusion/exclusion criteria, which were systematically analyzed in-depth, information extracted, and included in this scoping review. The results suggest that Varroa mites are one of the predominant causes of global honey bee decline as they lack natural resistance to Varroa mites, thereby negatively affecting honey bee reproduction and immunity, killing broods, and transmitting pathogenic viruses to colonies. Further, our findings suggest that: apiarists have many options for Varroa control, but no method has proven to be effective, safe and nonpersistent in the environment; adoption of nano-pesticides and development of sustainable alternatives to traditional pesticides are key drivers for growing pesticide market; and nano-pesticides may have potential to serve as an effective, safe and non-ecopersistent pesticide for Varroa mite and associated virus control. In conclusion, this review highlights an unmet need for effective and sustainable control strategies and tools for Varroa mite and virus control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Summer Warner
- Department of Public Health, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Lok R Pokhrel
- Department of Public Health, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
| | - Shaw M Akula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Chukwudi S Ubah
- Department of Public Health, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Stephanie L Richards
- Environmental Health Science Program, Department of Health Education and Promotion, College of Health and Human Performance, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Heidi Jensen
- Department of Biology, Chowan University, Murfreesboro, NC, USA
| | - Gregory D Kearney
- Department of Public Health, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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Rein C, Blumenschein M, Traynor K, Rosenkranz P. Lithium chloride treatments in free flying honey bee colonies: efficacy, brood survival, and within-colony distribution. Parasitol Res 2023; 123:67. [PMID: 38133834 PMCID: PMC10746590 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08084-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The efficacy of various lithium chloride (LiCl) applications in eradicating the parasitic mite Varroa destructor in honey bee colonies was investigated, with a specific focus on its impact on brood development. In broodless colonies (3 weeks post queen caging), the highest efficacy of 98% was achieved with a 9-day treatment of 2.5 kg of candy spiked with 50 mM LiCl. A shorter 5-day treatment with 2 kg of 50 mM LiCl candy resulted in an efficacy of 78%. In colonies with brood, a repeated short-term application of 4 × 0.5 kg 50 mM LiCl candy yielded an efficacy of 88%. LiCl treatment led to a removal of the first batch of brood reared after release of the queen. However, no long-term effects on colony growth were observed, and the colonies successfully overwintered. Additionally, the study demonstrated that lithium is rapidly distributed among the bees of a colony within 2 days, yet only low concentrations were detected in stored food samples. This suggests that the bees efficiently absorb and distribute lithium within the colony. The harvested honey in the following spring revealed a lithium concentration of 0.1-0.2 mg/kg, which is below naturally occurring lithium levels in honey. Based on these findings, LiCl can be considered an effective and easy-to-apply acaricide in broodless colonies, and even in colonies with brood, it had good efficacy and no long-term effects on colony survival. Further research may be necessary to determine the optimal treatment period for achieving an efficacy over 95%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Rein
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Marius Blumenschein
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Kirsten Traynor
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Peter Rosenkranz
- State Institute of Bee Research, University of Hohenheim, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
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13
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Yi C, Teng D, Xie J, Tang H, Zhao D, Liu X, Liu T, Ding W, Khashaveh A, Zhang Y. Volatiles from cotton aphid ( Aphis gossypii) infested plants attract the natural enemy Hippodamia variegata. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1326630. [PMID: 38173929 PMCID: PMC10761428 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1326630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The Aphis gossypii is a major threat of cotton worldwide due to its short life cycle and rapid reproduction. Chemical control is the primary method used to manage the cotton aphid, which has significant environmental impacts. Therefore, prioritizing eco-friendly alternatives is essential for managing the cotton aphid. The ladybird, Hippodamia variegata, is a predominant predator of the cotton aphid. Its performance in cotton plantation is directly linked to chemical communication, where volatile compounds emitted from aphid-infested plants play important roles in successful predation. Here, we comprehensively studied the chemical interaction between the pest, natural enemy and host plants by analyzing the volatile profiles of aphid-infested cotton plants using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We then utilized the identified volatile compounds in electrophysiological recording (EAG) and behavioral assays. Through behavioral tests, we initially demonstrated the clear preference of both larvae and adults of H. variegata for aphid-infested plants. Subsequently, 13 compounds, namely α-pinene, cis-3-hexenyl acetate, 4-ethyl-1-octyn-3-ol, β-ocimene, dodecane, E-β-farnesene, decanal, methyl salicylate, β-caryophyllene, α-humulene, farnesol, DMNT, and TMTT were identified from aphid-infested plants. All these compounds were electrophysiologically active and induced detectable EAG responses in larvae and adults. Y-tube olfactometer assays indicated that, with few exceptions for larvae, all identified chemicals were attractive to H. variegata, particularly at the highest tested concentration (100 mg/ml). The outcomes of this study establish a practical foundation for developing attractants for H. variegata and open avenues for potential advancements in aphid management strategies by understanding the details of chemical communication at a tritrophic level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoqun Yi
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dong Teng
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Crop Diseases and Pests (Ministry of Education), College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaoxin Xie
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Animal Science, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Haoyu Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Danyang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaoxu Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, College of Plant Protection, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tinghui Liu
- College of Plant Protection, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Wei Ding
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Adel Khashaveh
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Biology of Plant Diseases and Insect Pests, Institute of Plant Protection, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
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14
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Wu T, Gao J, Choi YS, Kim DW, Han B, Yang S, Lu Y, Kang Y, Du H, Diao Q, Dai P. Interaction of chlorothalonil and Varroa destructor on immature honey bees rearing in vitro. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166302. [PMID: 37595923 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166302] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
Under realistic environmental conditions, bees are often exposed to multiple stressors, especially Varroa destructor and pesticides. In this study, the effects of exposure to NOAEC of chlorothalonil during the larval stage, in the presence or absence of V. destructor, was examined in terms of survival, morphological and transcriptional changes. The interaction between chlorothalonil and V. destructor on the survival of honey bee was additive. V. destructor are the dominant factor in the interaction for survival and transcriptome alternation. The downregulation of the genes related to tissue growth and caste differentiation may directly link to the mortality of honey bees. Either chlorothalonil or V. destructor induces the irregular morphology of trophocytes and oenocytes in the fat body. In addition to irregular shapes, oenocytes in V. destructor alone and double-stressor treatment group showed altered nuclei and vacuoles in the cytoplasm. The interaction of V. destructor and chlorothalonil at the larval stage have potential adverse effects on the subsequent adult bees, with up-regulation of genes involved in lipid metabolism and detoxification/defense in fat body tissue. Our findings provide a comprehensive understanding of combinatorial effects between biotic and abiotic stressors on one of the most important pollinators, honey bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jing Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Yong Soo Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Won Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju-gun 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Han
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Sa Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Ying Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China; Key Laboratory of Northern Urban Agriculture of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Bioscience and Resource Environment, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Yuxin Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hanchao Du
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Qingyun Diao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Pingli Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China.
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Dickey M, Whilden M, Ellis JT, Rangel J. A preliminary survey reveals that common viruses are found at low titers in a wild population of honey bees (Apis mellifera). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2023; 23:26. [PMID: 38098224 PMCID: PMC10721442 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iead117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
A major threat to honey bee (Apis mellifera Linnaeus, Hymenoptera: Apidae) health continues to be parasitism by the mite Varroa destructor, which has been linked to high colony losses worldwide. Besides feeding on developing and adult bees, Varroa is also a prolific vector of honey bee-associated viruses. Because they live in unmanaged conditions, wild honey bee colonies are not treated against Varroa, which has enabled the natural selection of more mite-tolerant bees. To date, few studies have explored the prevalence of viruses in unmanaged colonies. The Welder Wildlife Refuge (WWR) in Texas is a unique site to study the viral landscape of unmanaged honey bees in the United States. The goals of this study were to identify and quantify viruses in wild colonies at the WWR, to examine changes in the prevalence of viruses in these colonies over time, and to compare the presence and titers of viruses between wild colonies at the WWR and those from the nearest managed apiary. We collected bees from colonies at the WWR in 2013, 2016, and 2021, and analyzed selected viruses for their presence and titers via quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In 2021, we also sampled bees from the nearest managed apiary for comparison. We found low average virus titers in all wild colonies sampled, and no difference in virus titers between colonies at the WWR and those from the managed apiary. Our study indicates that virus titers in wild colonies at the WWR are similar to those found in nearby colonies, and that these titers fluctuate over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myra Dickey
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Mckaela Whilden
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | | | - Juliana Rangel
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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16
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Robi DT, Temteme S, Aleme M, Bogale A, Getachew A, Mendesil E. Epidemiology, factors influencing prevalence and level of varroosis infestation ( Varroa destructor) in honeybee ( Apis mellifera) colonies in different agroecologies of Southwest Ethiopia. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2023; 23:e00325. [PMID: 37711152 PMCID: PMC10498395 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2023.e00325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Little information is available on the epidemiology of varroosis caused by Varroa mite, Varroa destructor infestation in Ethiopia, although it is a devastating honeybee disease that results in significant economic losses in beekeeping. Therefore, between October 2021 and October 2022, a cross-sectional study was carried out in different agroecology zones in Southwest Ethiopia to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for varroosis, as well as the effects of this disease on honeybee colonies and honey production. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify possible risk factors for the prevalence of V. destructor. A total of 384 adult honeybee and worker or drone brood samples were collected from honeybee colonies and examined using standard diagnostic techniques in the laboratory. The result shows that the prevalence of V. destructor was found to be 39.3% (95% CI 34.44-44.21) and 43.2% (38.27-48.18) in adult honeybees and brood, respectively. The major risk factors for the prevalence of V. destructor in the study areas included agroecology (OR = 5.2, 95% CI 1.75-14.85), type of hive (OR = 2.9, 95% CI 1.17-17.03), management system (OR = 4.3, 95% CI 1.23-14.70), and colony management (OR = 3.5, 95% CI 1.31-9.14). The lower level of colony infestation in adult bees and brood was measured as 1.97 ± 0.14 and 3.19 ± 0.25, respectively. Season, colony status, colony management, and agroecology were among the determinant factors of the level of varroa mite infestation in adult bees and brood. The results of the study demonstrated that honey production losses are largely attributable to V. destructor infestation. Therefore, it is critical to inform the community about the effects of V. destructor on honey production and develop and implement effective management strategies for this disease. In addition, further research should be done to identify and isolate additional factors that contribute to varroosis in honeybees in different regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dereje Tulu Robi
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Shiferaw Temteme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Melkam Aleme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Ararsa Bogale
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Holeta Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Holeta, Ethiopia
| | - Awraris Getachew
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Bahir Dar University, P.O. Box 79, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Esayas Mendesil
- Department of Horticulture and Plant Sciences, Jimma University College of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 307, Jimma, Ethiopia
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17
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Mayack C, Cook SE, Niño BD, Rivera L, Niño EL, Seshadri A. Poor Air Quality Is Linked to Stress in Honeybees and Can Be Compounded by the Presence of Disease. INSECTS 2023; 14:689. [PMID: 37623399 PMCID: PMC10455886 DOI: 10.3390/insects14080689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Climate change-related extreme weather events have manifested in the western United States as warmer and drier conditions with an increased risk of wildfires. Honeybees, essential for crop pollination in California, are at the center of these extreme weather events. We associated the maximum daily temperature and air quality index values with the performance of colonies placed in wildfire-prone areas and determined the impact of these abiotic stressors on gene expression and histopathology. Our results indicate that poor air quality was associated with higher maximum daily temperatures and a lower gene expression level of Prophenoloxidase (ProPO), which is tied to immune system strength; however, a higher gene expression level of Vitellogenin (Vg) is tied to oxidative stress. There was a positive relationship between Varroa mites and N. ceranae pathogen loads, and a negative correlation between Varroa mites and Heat Shock Protein 70 (HSP70) gene expression, suggesting the limited ability of mite-infested colonies to buffer against extreme temperatures. Histological analyses did not reveal overt signs of interaction between pathology and abiotic stressors, but N. ceranae infections were evident. Our study provides insights into interactions between abiotic stressors, their relation to common biotic stressors, and the expression of genes related to immunity and oxidative stress in bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Mayack
- USDA/ARS/WRRC, Invasive Species and Pollinator Health Research Unit, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (C.M.); (B.D.N.); (L.R.)
| | - Sarah E. Cook
- SpecialtyVETPATH, 3450 16th Ave. W. Ste 303, Seattle, WA 98119, USA;
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 944 Garrod Drive, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Bernardo D. Niño
- USDA/ARS/WRRC, Invasive Species and Pollinator Health Research Unit, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (C.M.); (B.D.N.); (L.R.)
| | - Laura Rivera
- USDA/ARS/WRRC, Invasive Species and Pollinator Health Research Unit, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (C.M.); (B.D.N.); (L.R.)
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Elina L. Niño
- Department of Entomology and Nematology, University of California, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Arathi Seshadri
- USDA/ARS/WRRC, Invasive Species and Pollinator Health Research Unit, Davis, CA 95616, USA; (C.M.); (B.D.N.); (L.R.)
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18
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Meikle WG, Corby-Harris V, Ricigliano V, Snyder L, Weiss M. Cold storage as part of a Varroa management strategy: effects on honey bee colony performance, mite levels and stress biomarkers. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11842. [PMID: 37481663 PMCID: PMC10363162 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39095-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Placing honey bee colonies in cold storage has been proposed as a way to induce a pause in brood production as part of a Varroa mite treatment plan. Here, we exposed colonies to combinations of with or without an October cold storage period and with or without a subsequent miticide application. We then measured the effects of those treatments on colony-level variables (i.e. colony size, Varroa infestation level, survivorship and hive weight and temperature) and pooled individual-level variables that are associated with nutritional and stress responses. Colonies were assessed before and after cold storage, and again post winter, for a total duration of about 5 months, and the experiment was repeated. Brood levels were significantly lower after cold storage, and hive temperatures indicated that most or all brood had emerged after about two weeks in cold storage. However, Varroa levels at the end of the experiments in February were not significantly different among treatment groups. Colonies kept outside (not subjected to cold storage) and treated with a miticide had higher survivorship on average than any other treatment group, but no other group comparisons were significant, and long-term impact of cold storage on adult bee populations and on colony thermoregulation was low. The bee forage environment was also very different between the 2 years of the study, as rainfall and bee forage availability were much higher the second year. Colonies were over 2.5 times larger on average the second year compared to the first, both in terms of adult bee mass and brood area, and expression levels of nutrition and stress response genes were also significantly higher the second year. The results indicate that limited cold storage would likely have little long-term impact on most colony and individual measures of health, but for such a strategy to succeed levels of stressors, such as Varroa, may also need to be low.
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Affiliation(s)
- William G Meikle
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, USDA-ARS, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA.
| | | | - Vincent Ricigliano
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, USDA-ARS, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
- Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics, and Physiology Research, USDA-ARS, Baton Rouge, LA, 70820, USA
| | - Lucy Snyder
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, USDA-ARS, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
| | - Milagra Weiss
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, USDA-ARS, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
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19
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Chen J, Rincon JOR, DeGrandi-Hoffman G, Fewell J, Harrison J, Kang Y. Impacts of seasonality and parasitism on honey bee population dynamics. J Math Biol 2023; 87:19. [PMID: 37389742 DOI: 10.1007/s00285-023-01952-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
The honeybee plays an extremely important role in ecosystem stability and diversity and in the production of bee pollinated crops. Honey bees and other pollinators are under threat from the combined effects of nutritional stress, parasitism, pesticides, and climate change that impact the timing, duration, and variability of seasonal events. To understand how parasitism and seasonality influence honey bee colonies separately and interactively, we developed a non-autonomous nonlinear honeybee-parasite interaction differential equation model that incorporates seasonality into the egg-laying rate of the queen. Our theoretical results show that parasitism negatively impacts the honey bee population either by decreasing colony size or destabilizing population dynamics through supercritical or subcritical Hopf-bifurcations depending on conditions. Our bifurcation analysis and simulations suggest that seasonality alone may have positive or negative impacts on the survival of honey bee colonies. More specifically, our study indicates that (1) the timing of the maximum egg-laying rate seems to determine when seasonality has positive or negative impacts; and (2) when the period of seasonality is large it can lead to the colony collapsing. Our study further suggests that the synergistic influences of parasitism and seasonality can lead to complicated dynamics that may positively and negatively impact the honey bee colony's survival. Our work partially uncovers the intrinsic effects of climate change and parasites, which potentially provide essential insights into how best to maintain or improve a honey bee colony's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Chen
- Simon A. Levin Mathematical and Computational Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
| | - Jordy O Rodriguez Rincon
- Simon A. Levin Mathematical and Computational Modeling Sciences Center, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85281, USA
| | - Gloria DeGrandi-Hoffman
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
| | - Jennifer Fewell
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | - Jon Harrison
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | - Yun Kang
- Sciences and Mathematics Faculty, College of Integrative Sciences and Arts, Arizona State University, Mesa, AZ, 85212, USA.
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20
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Bachert A, Scheiner R. The ant's weapon improves honey bee learning performance. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8399. [PMID: 37225773 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35540-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Formic acid is the main component of the ant's major weapon against enemies. Being mainly used as a chemical defense, the acid is also exploited for recruitment and trail marking. The repelling effect of the organic acid is used by some mammals and birds which rub themselves in the acid to eliminate ectoparasites. Beekeepers across the world rely on this effect to control the parasitic mite Varroa destructor. Varroa mites are considered the most destructive pest of honey bees worldwide and can lead to the loss of entire colonies. Formic acid is highly effective against Varroa mites but can also kill the honeybee queen and worker brood. Whether formic acid can also affect the behavior of honey bees is unknown. We here study the effect of formic acid on sucrose responsiveness and cognition of honey bees treated at different live stages in field-relevant doses. Both behaviors are essential for survival of the honey bee colony. Rather unexpectedly, formic acid clearly improved the learning performance of the bees in appetitive olfactory conditioning, while not affecting sucrose responsiveness. This exciting side effect of formic acid certainly deserves further detailed investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Bachert
- Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Gießen, Schubertstraße 81, 35392, Gießen, Germany
| | - Ricarda Scheiner
- Behavioral Physiology and Sociobiology, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany.
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21
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Glavinić U, Rajković M, Ristanić M, Stevanović J, Vejnović B, Djelić N, Stanimirović Z. Genotoxic Potential of Thymol on Honey Bee DNA in the Comet Assay. INSECTS 2023; 14:insects14050451. [PMID: 37233079 DOI: 10.3390/insects14050451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Thymol is a natural essential oil derived from the plant Thymus vulgaris L. It is known to be beneficial for human and animal health and has been used in beekeeping practice against Varroa mite for years. In this study, the genotoxic and antigenotoxic potential of thymol were evaluated on the honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) continuous cell line AmE-711 for the first time. Using the Comet assay, three increasing concentrations (10, 100, and 1000 µg/mL) of thymol were tested. Negative control (non-treated cells) and positive control (cells treated with 100 µM H2O2) were also included. The absence of thymol cytotoxicity was confirmed with the Trypan blue exclusion test. Thymol in the concentration of 10 µg/mL did not increase DNA damage in AmE-711 honey bee cells, while 100 and 1000 µg/mL concentrations showed genotoxic effects. For testing the antigenotoxic effect, all concentrations of thymol were mixed and incubated with H2O2. The antigenotoxic effect against was absent at all concentrations (10, 100, 1000 μg/mL) tested. Moreover, thymol enhanced the H2O2-induced DNA migration in the Comet assay. The obtained results indicate genotoxic effects of thymol on cultured honey bee cells suggesting its careful application in beekeeping practice to avoid possible negative effects on honey bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uroš Glavinić
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milan Rajković
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Ristanić
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jevrosima Stevanović
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Branislav Vejnović
- Department of Economics and Statistics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ninoslav Djelić
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zoran Stanimirović
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
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22
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Bava R, Castagna F, Palma E, Ceniti C, Millea M, Lupia C, Britti D, Musella V. Prevalence of Varroa destructor in Honeybee (Apis mellifera) Farms and Varroosis Control Practices in Southern Italy. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1228. [PMID: 37317203 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of honeybee farms in industrialized countries currently base their Varroa destructor control programs on the use of acaricides in conjunction with other management practices. However, the outcomes of these practices are often misunderstood and have only been studied to a limited extent. Better yields are guaranteed by having hives with low infection levels in the spring. Therefore, it is crucial to understand which beekeeping practices can result in increased control effectiveness. This study aimed to analyze the potential effects of environmental factors and beekeeping practices on the dynamics of V. destructor population. Experimental evidence was obtained by interpolating percentage infestation data from diagnoses conducted on several apiaries in the Calabria region (Southern Italy) with data acquired from a questionnaire on pest control strategies. Data on climatic temperature during the different study periods were also taken into account. The study was conducted over two years and involved 84 Apis mellifera farms. For each apiary, the diagnosis of infestation was made on a minimum of 10 hives. In total, 840 samples of adult honeybees were analyzed in the field to determine the level of infestation. In 2020, 54.7% of the inspected apiaries tested positive for V. destructor, and in 2021, 50% tested positive, according to a study of the field test findings (taking into account a threshold of 3% in July). A significant effect of the number of treatments on parasite prevalence was found. The results showed a significant reduction in the infestation rate in apiaries that received more than two treatments each year. Furthermore, it was shown that management practices, such as drone brood removal and frequent queen replacement, have a statistically significant impact on the infestation rate. The analysis of the questionnaires revealed some critical issues. In particular, only 50% of the interviewed beekeepers diagnosed infestation on samples of adult bees, and only 69% practiced drug rotation. In conclusion, it is only possible to maintain the infestation rate at an acceptable threshold by implementing integrated pest management (IPM) programs and using good beekeeping practices (GBPs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health (IRC-FISH), Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Nutramed S.c.a.r.l., Complesso Ninì Barbieri, Roccelletta di Borgia, 88021 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Carlotta Ceniti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maurizio Millea
- ARA Calabria (Calabria Regional Breeders Association), Via Umberto Boccioni, 88046 Lamezia Terme, Italy
| | - Carmine Lupia
- National Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Castelluccio Superiore, 85040 Potenza, Italy
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale (CZ), 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Musella
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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23
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Bruce Krejčí A, Votýpková K, Lukeš J, Votýpka J. Varroa destructor. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:487-488. [PMID: 36967341 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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24
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Guichard M, Dainat B, Dietemann V. Prospects, challenges and perspectives in harnessing natural selection to solve the ‘varroa problem’ of honey bees. Evol Appl 2023; 16:593-608. [PMID: 36969141 PMCID: PMC10035043 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey bees, Apis mellifera, of European origin are major pollinators of crops and wild flora. Their endemic and exported populations are threatened by a variety of abiotic and biotic factors. Among the latter, the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor is the most important single cause behind colony mortality. The selection of mite resistance in honey bee populations has been deemed a more sustainable solution to its control than varroacidal treatments. Because natural selection has led to the survival of some European and African honey bee populations to V. destructor infestations, harnessing its principles has recently been highlighted as a more efficient way to provide honey bee lineages that survive infestations when compared with conventional selection on resistance traits against the parasite. However, the challenges and drawbacks of harnessing natural selection to solve the varroa problem have only been minimally addressed. We argue that failing to consider these issues could lead to counterproductive results, such as increased mite virulence, loss of genetic diversity reducing host resilience, population collapses or poor acceptance by beekeepers. Therefore, it appears timely to evaluate the prospects for the success of such programmes and the qualities of the populations obtained. After reviewing the approaches proposed in the literature and their outcomes, we consider their advantages and drawbacks and propose perspectives to overcome their limitations. In these considerations, we not only reflect on the theoretical aspects of host-parasite relationships but also on the currently largely neglected practical constraints, that is, the requirements for productive beekeeping, conservation or rewilding objectives. To optimize natural selection-based programmes towards these objectives, we suggest designs based on a combination of nature-driven phenotypic differentiation and human-directed selection of traits. Such a dual strategy aims at allowing field-realistic evolutionary approaches towards the survival of V. destructor infestations and the improvement of honey bee health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vincent Dietemann
- Swiss Bee Research Centre Agroscope Bern Switzerland
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Biophore, UNIL‐Sorge University of Lausanne Lausanne Switzerland
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25
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Wu X, Li Z, Yang H, He X, Yan W, Zeng Z. The adverse impact on lifespan, immunity, and forage behavior of worker bees (Apis mellifera Linnaeus 1758) after exposure to flumethrin. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:160146. [PMID: 36375554 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Several pyrethroids (such as flumethrin and fluvalinate) with low toxicity to honey bees and comparable high toxicity to mites are used worldwide as acaricides. However, flumethrin has been used for a long time in colonies to control Varroa destructor and the honey bees might be exposed to flumethrin cumulatively, which could affect the health of honey bee colonies. This study evaluated the potential adverse effects of direct flumethrin exposure on worker bees under laboratory and colony conditions. Under laboratory conditions, downregulation of genes related to immune was observed when worker bees were exposed to flumethrin above 1/16 LD50; at levels above 1/8 LD50, olfactory learning was impaired, and genes related to learning memory were downregulated; and at >1/4 LD50, their lifespan was shortened. Monitoring with radio frequency identification (RFID) revealed that worker bees in a colony exposed to flumethrin above 1/8 LD50 had a shortened lifespan and reduced foraging ability. When worker bees are exposed to >1/4 LD50 of flumethrin, it can lead to excessive rest day behavior. These results indicate that applying flumethrin in colonies may pose a severe health risk to honey bees and reveal the urgent need to develop non-toxic and highly effective acaricides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobo Wu
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China.
| | - Zhen Li
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China
| | - Heyan Yang
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China
| | - Xujiang He
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China
| | - Weiyu Yan
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China
| | - Zhijiang Zeng
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China; Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330045, PR China
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26
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Fama F, Feltracco M, Moro G, Barbaro E, Bassanello M, Gambaro A, Zanardi C. Pesticides monitoring in biological fluids: Mapping the gaps in analytical strategies. Talanta 2023; 253:123969. [PMID: 36191513 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pesticides play a key-role in the development of the agrifood sector allowing controlling pest growth and, thus, improving the production rates. Pesticides chemical stability is responsible of their persistency in environmental matrices leading to bioaccumulation in animal tissues and hazardous several effects on living organisms. The studies regarding long-term effects of pesticides exposure and their toxicity are still limited to few studies focusing on over-exposed populations, but no extensive dataset is currently available. Pesticides biomonitoring relies mainly on chromatographic techniques coupled with mass spectrometry, whose large-scale application is often limited by feasibility constraints (costs, time, etc.). On the contrary, chemical sensors allow rapid, in-situ screening. Several sensors were designed for the detection of pesticides in environmental matrices, but their application in biological fluids needs to be further explored. Aiming at contributing to the implementation of pesticides biomonitoring methods, we mapped the main gaps between screening and chromatographic methods. Our overview focuses on the recent advances (2016-2021) in analytical methods for the determination of commercial pesticides in human biological fluids and provides guidelines for their application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Fama
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia, Italy
| | - Matteo Feltracco
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia, Italy
| | - Giulia Moro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia, Italy.
| | - Elena Barbaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia, Italy; Istituto di Scienze Polari (ISP-CNR), Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia, Italy
| | - Marco Bassanello
- Health Direction Monastier di Treviso Hospital, Via Giovanni XXIII 7, 31050, Treviso, Italy
| | - Andrea Gambaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia, Italy; Istituto di Scienze Polari (ISP-CNR), Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia, Italy.
| | - Chiara Zanardi
- Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia, Italy; Institute for the Organic Synthesis and Photosynthesis, Research National Council, 40129, Bologna, Italy
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27
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Zhang G, Olsson RL, Hopkins BK. Strategies and techniques to mitigate the negative impacts of pesticide exposure to honey bees. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 318:120915. [PMID: 36563989 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In order to support food, fiber, and fuel production around the world, billions of kilograms of pesticides are applied to crop fields every year to suppress pests, plant diseases and weeds. These fields are often home to the most important commercial pollinators, honey bees (Apis spp.), which improve yield and quality of many agricultural products. The pesticides applied to support crop health can be detrimental to honey bee health. The conflict of pesticide use and reliance on honey bees contributes to significant honey bee colony losses across the world. Recommendations for reducing impact on honey bees are generally suggested in literature, pesticide regulations, and by crop consultants, but without a considerable discussion of the realistic limitations of protecting honey bees. New techniques in farming and beekeeping can reduce pesticide exposure through reduction in bee exposure, reduced toxicity of pesticides, and remedies that can be in response to exposure. However, lack of assessment of those new techniques under a systematical, comprehensive framework may overestimate or underestimate these techniques' potential to protect honey bees from pesticide damage. In this review, we summarize the current and arising strategies and techniques with the goal to inspire the development and adoption of pesticide mitigation practices for both agriculture and apiculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Zhang
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington State 99164, United State of America.
| | - Rae L Olsson
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington State 99164, United State of America
| | - Brandon Kingsley Hopkins
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington State 99164, United State of America
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28
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Zhang G, Kersten M, Owen A, Skidmore A. Honey bee foraging and pesticide exposure in a desert urban agroecosystem. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 249:114472. [PMID: 38321687 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
The negative impacts of industrial farming on honey bee health have been widely recognized regarding pesticide use and natural foraging habitat loss. An assessment of suitability of urban farms regarding honey bee health is necessary for sustainable development of agriculture and apiculture in urban settings. Urban farms that adopt organic farming practices with restrictions on synthetic pesticide use and conservation of natural habitat can potentially create an environment to mitigate these environmental stressors on honey bees. In this experiment, bee-collected pollen was taken from honey bee colonies that were located on five organically managed urban farms located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to evaluate pesticide exposure and forage use. We also explored the influence of hive equipment on honey bee health in a high desert climate. We found that honey bees on organic urban farms were not stressed by pesticides with limited pesticide types detected (2 out of 187), low residue levels (< 20 µg/kg) and low toxicity (either no, or low toxicity with LD50 at 1,450,300 µg/kg). Honey bees had access to diverse forage resources based on pollen barcoding data. When comparing hive equipment between 10-frame, 8-frame Langstroth and top bar hives, it was determined that 8-frame hives could significantly enhance honey bee health including colony survival and weight growth, comb construction and brood production. Our results suggest that organic urban farms are appropriate locations for securing honey bee health and food safety in a desert climate; while, the selection of hive equipment should be considered when mitigating environmental stress to colonies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Zhang
- Agricultural Science Center at Los Lunas, New Mexico State University, Los Lunas, New Mexico 87031, United States of America; Department of Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Weed Science, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88003, United States of America; Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington 99164, United States of America.
| | - Miranda Kersten
- Agricultural Science Center at Los Lunas, New Mexico State University, Los Lunas, New Mexico 87031, United States of America
| | - Amy Owen
- Desert Hives LLC, Tijeras, New Mexico 87059, United States of America
| | - Amanda Skidmore
- Agricultural Science Center at Los Lunas, New Mexico State University, Los Lunas, New Mexico 87031, United States of America; Department of Agricultural Sciences, Morehead State University, Morehead, Kentucky 40351, United States of America
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29
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Phytochemical Profile of Foeniculum vulgare Subsp. piperitum Essential Oils and Evaluation of Acaricidal Efficacy against Varroa destructor in Apis mellifera by In Vitro and Semi-Field Fumigation Tests. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9120684. [PMID: 36548845 PMCID: PMC9784571 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9120684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Varroatosis is an important parasitic disease of Apis mellifera caused by the mite Varroa destructor (V. destructor). The parasite is able to transmit numerous pathogens to honeybees which can lead to colony collapse. In recent years, the effectiveness of authorized drug products has decreased due to increasing resistance phenomena. Therefore, the search for alternatives to commercially available drugs is mandatory. In this context, essential oils (EOs) prove to be a promising choice to be studied for their known acaricide properties. In this research work, the acaricide activity of EO vapours isolated from the epigeal part (whole plant) of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare sbps. piperitum) and its three fractions (leaves, achenes and flowers) against V. destructor was evaluated. The effectiveness of fumigation was studied using two methods. The first involved prolonged exposure of mites to oil vapour for variable times. After exposure, the five mites in each replicate were placed in a Petri dish with an Apis mellifera larva. Mortality, due to chronic toxicity phenomena, was assessed after 48 h. The second method aimed to translate the results obtained from the in vitro test into a semi-field experiment. Therefore, two-level cages were set up. In the lower compartment of the cage, a material releasing oil vapours was placed; in the upper compartment, Varroa-infested honeybees were set. The results of the first method showed that the increase in mortality was directly proportional to exposure time and concentration. The whole plant returned 68% mortality at the highest concentration (2 mg/mL) and highest exposure time (48 h control), while the leaves, achenes and flowers returned 64%, 52% and 56% mortality, respectively. In the semi-field experiment, a concentration up to 20 times higher than the one used in the in vitro study was required for the whole plant to achieve a similar mite drop of >50%. The results of the study show that in vitro tests should only be used for preliminary screening of EO activity. In vitro tests should be followed by semi-field tests, which are essential to identify the threshold of toxicity to bees and the effective dose to be used in field studies.
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30
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Mazur ED, Czopowicz M, Gajda AM. Two Faces of the Screened Bottom Boards-An Ambiguous Influence on the Honey Bee Winter Colony Loss Rate. INSECTS 2022; 13:1128. [PMID: 36555038 PMCID: PMC9784936 DOI: 10.3390/insects13121128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a citizen science survey on the winter honey bee colony losses in Poland from 2017/18 to 2019/20 to determine the influence of the use of screened bottom boards on the winter colony losses due to various causes. A total of 1035 beekeepers with 40,003 colonies reported valid data. The overall winter colony loss rate ranged from 10.7% to 13.9%, and in every year, the overall winter colony loss rate was higher than 10% (which is considered as acceptable in Poland). The study reveals that the use of screened bottom boards was associated with reduced overall loss rate. However, the nature of this relationship was not the same in terms of all types of colony losses: while the use of screened bottom boards was associated with a reduced mortality rate (management-related colony loss rate due to dead colonies) in which the empty hives were observed (colony depopulation syndrome, CDS), it was associated with an increased mortality rate in which the lack of food was observed (starvation). Given that in our study the role of CDS in the overall colony loss rate was 2.5-fold higher than the role of starvation, the final influence of the use of screened bottom boards on the overall colony loss rate turned out to be beneficial. Given the well-known beneficial role of screened bottom boards in varroosis control, they are highly recommended in beekeeping practices in Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Danuta Mazur
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Czopowicz
- Division of Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Maria Gajda
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska St. 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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31
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Dequenne I, Philippart de Foy JM, Cani PD. Developing Strategies to Help Bee Colony Resilience in Changing Environments. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12233396. [PMID: 36496917 PMCID: PMC9737243 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate change, loss of plant biodiversity, burdens caused by new pathogens, predators, and toxins due to human disturbance and activity are significant causes of the loss of bee colonies and wild bees. The aim of this review is to highlight some possible strategies that could help develop bee resilience in facing their changing environments. Scientists underline the importance of the links between nutrition, microbiota, and immune and neuroendocrine stress resistance of bees. Nutrition with special care for plant-derived molecules may play a major role in bee colony health. Studies have highlighted the importance of pollen, essential oils, plant resins, and leaves or fungi as sources of fundamental nutrients for the development and longevity of a honeybee colony. The microbiota is also considered as a key factor in bee physiology and a cornerstone between nutrition, metabolism, growth, health, and pathogen resistance. Another stressor is the varroa mite parasite. This parasite is a major concern for beekeepers and needs specific strategies to reduce its severe impact on honeybees. Here we discuss how helping bees to thrive, especially through changing environments, is of great concern for beekeepers and scientists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Dequenne
- J-M Philippart de Foy & I Dequenne Consultation, Avenue Orban, 127, 1150 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Patrice D. Cani
- Metabolism and Nutrition Research Group, Louvain Drug Research Institute, UCLouvain, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
- WELBIO Department, WEL Research Institute, Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and BIOtechnology (WELBIO), Avenue Pasteur, 6, 1300 Wavre, Belgium
- Correspondence:
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32
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Iglesias AE, Fuentes G, Mitton G, Ramos F, Brasesco C, Manzo R, Orallo D, Gende L, Eguaras M, Ramirez C, Fanovich A, Maggi M. Hydrolats from Humulus lupulus and Their Potential Activity as an Organic Control for Varroa destructor. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:3329. [PMID: 36501370 PMCID: PMC9736243 DOI: 10.3390/plants11233329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is a parasitic mite, which is considered a severe pest for honey bees causing serious losses to beekeeping. Residual hydrolats from steam extraction of hop essential oils, generally considered as a waste product, were tested for their potential use as acaricides on V. destructor. Four hop varieties, namely Cascade, Spalt, Victoria, and Mapuche, showed an interesting performance as feasible products to be used in the beekeeping industry. Some volatile oxidized terpenoids were found in the hydrolats, mainly β-caryophyllene oxide, β-linalool, and isogeraniol. These compounds, together with the presence of polyphenols, flavonoids, and saponins, were probably responsible for the promissory LC50 values obtained for mites after hydrolat exposition. Victoria hydrolat was the most toxic for mites (LC50: 16.1 µL/mL), followed by Mapuche (LC50 value equal to 30.1 µL/mL), Spalt (LC50 value equal to 114.3 µL/mL), and finally Cascade (LC50: 117.9 µL/mL). Likewise, Spalt had the highest larval survival, followed by Victoria and Mapuche. Cascade was the variety with the highest larval mortality. In addition, none of the extracts showed mortality higher than 20% in adult bees. The Victoria hydrolat presented the best results, which makes it a good compound with the prospect of an acaricide treatment against V. destructor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azucena Elizabeth Iglesias
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Giselle Fuentes
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Giulia Mitton
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Facundo Ramos
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Constanza Brasesco
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Rosa Manzo
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Investigaciones en Evolución y Biodiversidad, Universidad Nacional de la Patagonia San Juan Bosco, Esquel CP 9200, Argentina
| | - Dalila Orallo
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Departamento de Química y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Liesel Gende
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Martin Eguaras
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Cristina Ramirez
- Departamento de Química y Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Alejandra Fanovich
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnología de Materiales (INTEMA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
| | - Matias Maggi
- Centro de Investigación en Abejas Sociales (CIAS), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata CP 7600, Argentina
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Vieira JJ, Johnson CL, Varkonyi EM, Ginsberg HS, Picard KL, Kiesewetter MK, Alm SR. Using Surrogate Insects in Acid Bioassays for Development of New Controls for Varroa destructor (Arachnida: Varroidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 115:1417-1422. [PMID: 35980393 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toac120] [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: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Resistance to traditional synthetic compounds by Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman and shortcomings of the organic acid class of acaracides commonly used in varroa management requires continual development of new controls. V. destructor, however, are difficult to obtain for use in control bioassays because they are obligate parasites that cannot be easily reared outside of a honey bee colony. We conducted bioassays using other, more easily obtainable species to find organisms that could be used as surrogates for V. destructor when testing new potential controls. We compared the toxicities of acetic acid, lactic acid, formic acid, and oxalic acid at 0.005%, 0.05%, 0.5%, 5%, and 50% (20% oxalic acid only) concentrations based on natural volatility (nonheated) for the control of two beetle species, Oryzaephilus surinamensis L. and Alphitobius diaperinus Panzer, greater wax moth larvae, Galleria mellonella L., and V. destructor. The assay results were consistent across all species with formic acid and acetic acid showing 100% mortality of all four test species at 50% concentration. The assays also provided insight into the method of application (vaporization or contact) needed to cause mortality. Our results show that other organisms can be used in place of V. destructor for initial testing of acids and possibly other chemicals for control of the ectoparasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia J Vieira
- Department of Plant Sciences and Entomology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Casey L Johnson
- Department of Plant Sciences and Entomology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Varkonyi
- Department of Plant Sciences and Entomology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Howard S Ginsberg
- Department of Plant Sciences and Entomology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
- U.S. Geological Survey, Eastern Ecological Science Center, Rhode Island Field Station, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Kassie L Picard
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | | | - Steven R Alm
- Department of Plant Sciences and Entomology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
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Jovanovic NM, Glavinic U, Ristanic M, Vejnovic B, Stevanovic J, Cosic M, Stanimirovic Z. Contact varroacidal efficacy of lithium citrate and its influence on viral loads, immune parameters and oxidative stress of honey bees in a field experiment. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1000944. [PMID: 36171978 PMCID: PMC9510912 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1000944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
With an almost global distribution, Varroa destuctor is the leading cause of weakening and loss of honey bee colonies. New substances are constantly being tested in order to find those that will exhibit high anti-Varroa efficacy at low doses/concentrations, without unwanted effects on bees. Lithium (Li) salts stood out as candidates based on previous research. The aims of this study were to evaluate Li citrate hydrate (Li-cit) for its contact efficacy against Varroa, but also the effect of Li-cit on honey bees by estimating loads of honey bee viruses, expression levels of immune-related genes and genes for antioxidative enzymes and oxidative stress parameters on two sampling occasions, before the treatment and after the treatment. Our experiment was performed on four groups, each consisting of seven colonies. Two groups were treated with the test compound, one receiving 5 mM and the other 10 mM of Li-cit; the third received oxalic acid treatment (OA group) and served as positive control, and the fourth was negative control (C group), treated with 50% w/v pure sucrose-water syrup. Single trickling treatment was applied in all groups. Both tested concentrations of Li-cit, 5 and 10 mM, expressed high varroacidal efficacy, 96.85% and 96.80%, respectively. Load of Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus significantly decreased (p < 0.01) after the treatment in group treated with 5 mM of Li-cit. In OA group, loads of Acute Bee Paralysis Virus and Deformed Wing Virus significantly (p < 0.05) increased, and in C group, loads of all viruses significantly (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001) increased. Transcript levels of genes for abaecin, apidaecin, defensin and vitellogenin were significantly higher (p < 0.05—p < 0.001), while all oxidative stress parameters were significantly lower (p < 0.05—p < 0.001) after the treatment in both groups treated with Li-cit. All presented results along with easy application indicate benefits of topical Li-cit treatment and complete the mosaic of evidence on the advantages of this salt in the control of Varroa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nemanja M. Jovanovic
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Uros Glavinic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marko Ristanic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Branislav Vejnovic
- Department of Economics and Statistics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jevrosima Stevanovic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
- *Correspondence: Jevrosima Stevanovic,
| | - Milivoje Cosic
- Institute of Forestry, Belgrade, Serbia
- Department of Animal Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Bijeljina University, Bijeljina, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Zoran Stanimirovic
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Bava R, Castagna F, Carresi C, Cardamone A, Federico G, Roncada P, Palma E, Musella V, Britti D. Comparison of Two Diagnostic Techniques for the Apis mellifera Varroatosis: Strengths, Weaknesses and Impact on the Honeybee Health. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9070354. [PMID: 35878371 PMCID: PMC9315579 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9070354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Varroa destructor is the most dangerous pest that poses a threat to honey bee survival. In recent years, increasingly worrying phenomena of drug resistance have occurred to various active ingredients of pharmaceutical formulations used to control this parasitosis. Determining the level of infestation is essential to preventing the inappropriate use and abuse of veterinary medicines, and to choose the most appropriate time for treatment. This comparative study investigates the sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy of two field techniques for diagnosing V. destructor infestations in hives. The EasyCheck device (Véto-pharma) was used in two of its application modes, namely, the sugar roll test and carbon dioxide (CO2) injection. The experiments were conducted on 15 samples of 300 bees each taken from the same frame and checked for the presence of mites using standard and modified field techniques in both uncaged and caged queen hive conditions. The results demonstrate that the sugar roll technique is significantly more effective and safer than CO2 injection, allowing for a higher accuracy in diagnosing a V. destructor infestation. Furthermore, the evaluation of mites present on bees in brood block conditions has proven to be particularly reliable. Considering the number of mites on the filter of the device as an additional step helps to implement the diagnostic accuracy of the CO2 injection technique, however, not achieving the efficacy results of the sugar roll.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.); (P.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.)
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.); (P.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.)
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cristina Carresi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.); (P.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.)
- Veterinary Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (E.P.)
| | - Antonio Cardamone
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.); (P.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.)
| | - Giovanni Federico
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Loc. Catona, 89135 Reggio Calabria, Italy;
| | - Paola Roncada
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.); (P.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.)
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.); (P.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.)
- Veterinary Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health IRC-FSH, Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Nutramed S.c.a.r.l. Complesso Ninì Barbieri, Roccelletta di Borgia, 88021 Catanzaro, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.C.); (E.P.)
| | - Vincenzo Musella
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.); (P.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.)
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (A.C.); (P.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.)
- Interdepartmental Center Veterinary Service for Human and Animal Health, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CISVetSUA, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Use of Thymol in Nosema ceranae Control and Health Improvement of Infected Honey Bees. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13070574. [PMID: 35886750 PMCID: PMC9319372 DOI: 10.3390/insects13070574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary In the European Union, there is no registered product for the control of the honey bee endoparasite Nosema ceranae. Thus, researchers are looking for options for Nosema treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a natural essential-oil ingredient (thymol) derived from Thymus vulgaris on honey bees infected with N. ceranae. Thymol exerted certain positive effects (increasing bee survival, immunity, and antioxidative protection), as well as positively affecting the spore loads in Nosema-infected bees. However, when applied to Nosema-free bees, thymol caused certain health disorders; therefore, beekeepers should be careful with its use. Abstract Nosema ceranae is the most widespread microsporidian species which infects the honey bees of Apis mellifera by causing the weakening of their colonies and a decline in their productive and reproductive capacities. The only registered product for its control is the antibiotic fumagillin; however, in the European Union, there is no formulation registered for use in beekeeping. Thymol (3-hydroxy-p-cymene) is a natural essential-oil ingredient derived from Thymus vulgaris, which has been used in Varroa control for decades. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of thymol supplementation on the expression of immune-related genes and the parameters of oxidative stress and bee survival, as well as spore loads in bees infected with the microsporidian parasite N. ceranae. The results reveal mostly positive effects of thymol on health (increasing levels of immune-related genes and values of oxidative stress parameters, and decreasing Nosema spore loads) when applied to Nosema-infected bees. Moreover, supplementation with thymol did not induce negative effects in Nosema-infected bees. However, our results indicate that in Nosema-free bees, thymol itself could cause certain disorders (affecting bee survival, decreasing oxidative capacity, and downregulation of some immune-related gene expressions), showing that one should be careful with preventive, uncontrolled, and excessive use of thymol. Thus, further research is needed to reveal the effect of this phytogenic supplement on the immunity of uninfected bees.
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Kretzschmar A, Maisonnasse A. More Worker Capped Brood and Honey Bees with Less Varroa Load Are Simple Precursors of Colony Productivity at Beekeepers’ Disposal: An Extensive Longitudinal Survey. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13050472. [PMID: 35621806 PMCID: PMC9147430 DOI: 10.3390/insects13050472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Annual and regional variations in lavender honey flow are significant in the southeast of France. Beekeepers are wondering how they can buffer these variations by modifying the populations’ parameters of colonies. For 13 consecutive years (2009–2021), colony population parameters and Varroa load were measured to identify the importance of each parameter on the honey flow outcome. Each year, between 300 and 600 colonies were observed. The results of this study show that the population factors which explained the weight of harvested honey are first, the amount of capped brood and, to a lesser extent, the number of bees. A maximum Varroa load of 3 Varroa mites per 100 bees at the beginning of the honey flow was identified as the threshold beyond which colonies performance are weakened. These long-term observations have provided a general background that beekeepers use to improve colony preparation for this honey flow. Abstract In response to the concerns of beekeepers on the decline of honey bee populations on lavender honey flow in the lavender fields of southeast France and the consequent decrease of honey production, our long-term survey (2009–2021) monitored the total weight gain collected by these colonies. This study shows the variations in the total weight gain according to regions, years, populations structure (bee number and quantity of capped brood) and Varroa load. Among these factors, years and regions support one third of the variations over this 13-year survey. At the beginning of the honey flow, capped brood is more important than the number of bees, whereas Varroa load severely limits the performance of the colonies. A threshold of 3 mites/100 bees seems to reflect the upper limit of the Varroa load below which the total weight gain is not affected. This survey provides useful information for the beekeepers to better prepare the colonies for this honey flow and allows them to compare their results obtained with our general description of the total weight gains by year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Kretzschmar
- INRA, BioSP-Biostatistics and Spatial Processes, 228 Route de l’Aérodrome, CEDEX 9, 84914 Avignon, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-06-80-74-11-87
| | - Alban Maisonnasse
- ADAPI, Maison des Agriculteurs, 22 Avenue Henri Pontier, CEDEX 1, 13626 Aix-en-Provence, France;
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Sabella G, Mulè R, Robba L, Agrò A, Manachini B. Could Europe Apply a Suitable Control Method for the Small Hive Beetle (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)? JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 115:401-411. [PMID: 35217874 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toac001] [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: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The European bee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae), is a fundamental resource for the pollination of a great variety of botanical species used by humans for sustenance. Over the last few decades, bee colonies have become vulnerable to a new pest that has advanced beyond its native sub-Saharan territory: the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida Murray (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae). This currently presents a pressing problem in the United States and Australia, but it has also been recorded in Portugal and Italy and it is likely to spread in the rest of Europe too. This study represents a systematic review, based on EFSA guidelines, of the various control treatments for small hive beetles in order to identify the most effective methods as well as, those with no effects on bee colonies. The results show that the bulk of these studies were performed in the United States and that a number of treatments are suitable for the control of A. tumida, though some have negative effects on bees while others have low effectiveness or are ineffective. The best results are those with the entomopathogenic nematodes of the genus Steinernema and Heterorhabditis, but also with formic acid or diatomaceous earth. Various products containing insecticides have been effective, for example, Perizin (Bayer), GardStar (Y-Tex), CheckMite+ strips (Bayer), but Apithor (Apithor ) cannot be used in Europe because it contains Fipronil, which has been banned since 2013. Some common products like bleach and detergent have also been effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Sabella
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF), University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze N. 13., Palermo, Italy
| | - Rosaria Mulè
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF), University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze N. 13., Palermo, Italy
| | - Lavinia Robba
- International School Palermo (ISP), 38/42, Via Piersanti Mattarella Palermo, Italy
| | - Alfonso Agrò
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF), University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze N. 13., Palermo, Italy
| | - Barbara Manachini
- Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF), University of Palermo, viale delle Scienze N. 13., Palermo, Italy
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Bartlett LJ. Frontiers in effective control of problem parasites in beekeeping. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2022; 17:263-272. [PMID: 35309040 PMCID: PMC8924282 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2022.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Demand for better control of certain parasites in managed western honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) remains apparent amongst beekeepers in both Europe and North America, and is of widespread public, scientific, and agricultural concern. Academically, interest from numerous fields including veterinary sciences has led to many exemplary reviews of the parasites of honey bees and the treatment options available. However, summaries of current research frontiers in treating both novel and long-known parasites of managed honey bees are lacking. This review complements the currently comprehensive body of literature summarizing the effectiveness of parasite control in managed honey bees by outlining where significant gaps in development, implementation, and uptake lie, including integration into IPM frameworks and separation of cultural, biological, and chemical controls. In particular, I distinguish where challenges in identifying appropriate controls exist in the lab compared to where we encounter hurdles in technology transfer due to regulatory, economic, or cultural contexts. I overview how exciting frontiers in honey bee parasite control research are clearly demonstrated by the abundance of recent publications on novel control approaches, but also caution that temperance must be levied on the applied end of the research engine in believing that what can be achieved in a laboratory research environment can be quickly and effectively marketed for deployment in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis J Bartlett
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Disease, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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Reams T, Rangel J. Understanding the Enemy: A Review of the Genetics, Behavior and Chemical Ecology of Varroa destructor, the Parasitic Mite of Apis mellifera. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2022; 22:6523143. [PMID: 35137134 PMCID: PMC8825774 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieab101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor (Mesostigmata: Varroidae) is arguably the most damaging parasitic mite that attacks honey bees worldwide. Since its initial host switch from the Asian honey bee (Apis cerana) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) to the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) (Hymenoptera: Apidae), Varroa has become a widely successful invasive species, attacking honey bees on almost every continent where apiculture is practiced. Two haplotypes of V. destructor (Japanese and Korean) parasitize A. mellifera, both of which vector various honey bee-associated viruses. As the population of Varroa grows within a colony in the spring and summer, so do the levels of viral infections. Not surprisingly, high Varroa parasitization impacts bees at the individual level, causing bees to exhibit lower weight, decreased learning capacity, and shorter lifespan. High levels of Varroa infestation can lead to colony-wide varroosis and eventually colony death, especially when no control measures are taken against the mites. Varroa has become a successful parasite of A. mellifera because of its ability to reproduce within both drone cells and worker cells, which allows populations to expand rapidly. Varroa uses several chemical cues to complete its life cycle, many of which remain understudied and should be further explored. Given the growing reports of pesticide resistance by Varroa in several countries, a better understanding of the mite's basic biology is needed to find alternative pest management strategies. This review focuses on the genetics, behavior, and chemical ecology of V. destructor within A. mellifera colonies, and points to areas of research that should be exploited to better control this pervasive honey bee enemy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Reams
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, 2475 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Juliana Rangel
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, 2475 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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