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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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2
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Reyes-Quintana M, Goodwin PH, Correa-Benítez A, Pelaez-Hernández R, Guzman-Novoa E. Genetic variability of the honey bee mite, Varroa destructor, from a humid continental climatic region of Canada, and temperate and tropical climatic regions of Mexico. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2023; 91:541-559. [PMID: 37884811 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00848-6] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is a damaging mite of Western honey bees (Apis mellifera). Genetic variability of the mite in different regions of the world could be related to the movement of infested bees or other factors, such as climate. In this study, V. destructor samples were collected from tropical and temperate climate regions of Mexico, and a humid continental climate region of Canada. COX-1 AFLPs showed that all the mites were the Korean haplotype. Four microsatellites revealed nine haplogroups from the continental climate region of Canada, compared to three haplogroups from the tropical and temperate climate regions of Mexico. CytII-ATP sequences showed seven haplogroups from the humid continental climate region vs. two haplogroups from the temperate region and one haplogroup from the tropical region. CytB sequences revealed seven haplogroups from Canada vs. three from Mexico. A comparison of the cytB sequences of the samples from Canada and Mexico to those from a worldwide collection showed that one sequence, designated the cytB1 type, predominated, comprising 57% of the 86 sequences; it clustered with similar sequences that comprised 80% of the sequences, designated family A. CytB1 was predominant in Mexico, but not in Canada. The other 20% of sequences were in families B and C, and all those samples originated from East and Southeast Asia. The microsatellite, cytII-ATP, and cytB markers, all showed higher variability in mites collected in Canada than in Mexico, which could be related to the cooler climate or an earlier invasion and/or multiple mite invasions in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Reyes-Quintana
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Paul H Goodwin
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Adriana Correa-Benítez
- Departamento de Medicina y Zootecnia en Abejas, FMVZ, UNAM, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Mexico, Mexico
| | - Roberto Pelaez-Hernández
- Departamento de Medicina y Zootecnia en Abejas, FMVZ, UNAM, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Mexico, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Guzman-Novoa
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Lester PJ, Felden A, Baty JW, Bulgarella M, Haywood J, Mortensen AN, Remnant EJ, Smeele ZE. Viral communities in the parasite Varroa destructor and in colonies of their honey bee host (Apis mellifera) in New Zealand. Sci Rep 2022; 12:8809. [PMID: 35614309 PMCID: PMC9133037 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12888-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The parasitic mite Varroa destructor is a leading cause of mortality for Western honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies around the globe. We sought to confirm the presence and likely introduction of only one V. destructor haplotype in New Zealand, and describe the viral community within both V. destructor mites and the bees that they parasitise. A 1232 bp fragment from mitochondrial gene regions suggests the likely introduction of only one V. destructor haplotype to New Zealand. Seventeen viruses were found in bees. The most prevalent and abundant was the Deformed wing virus A (DWV-A) strain, which explained 95.0% of the variation in the viral community of bees. Black queen cell virus, Sacbrood virus, and Varroa destructor virus 2 (VDV-2) played secondary roles. DWV-B and the Israeli acute paralysis virus appeared absent from New Zealand. Ten viruses were observed in V. destructor, with > 99.9% of viral reads from DWV-A and VDV-2. Substantially more variation in viral loads was observed in bees compared to mites. Where high levels of VDV-2 occurred in mites, reduced DWV-A occurred in both the mites and the bees co-occurring within the same hive. Where there were high loads of DWV-A in mites, there were typically high viral loads in bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip J Lester
- Centre for Biodiversity and Restoration Ecology, School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington, 6012, New Zealand.
| | - Antoine Felden
- Centre for Biodiversity and Restoration Ecology, School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington, 6012, New Zealand
| | - James W Baty
- Centre for Biodiversity and Restoration Ecology, School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington, 6012, New Zealand
| | - Mariana Bulgarella
- Centre for Biodiversity and Restoration Ecology, School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington, 6012, New Zealand
| | - John Haywood
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington, 6012, New Zealand
| | - Ashley N Mortensen
- The New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited, Private Bag 3230, Waikato Mail Centre, Hamilton, 3240, New Zealand
| | - Emily J Remnant
- Behaviour, Ecology and Evolution Laboratory, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Science Road, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Zoe E Smeele
- Centre for Biodiversity and Restoration Ecology, School of Biological Sciences, Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington, 6012, New Zealand
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Molecular Detection and Differentiation of Arthropod, Fungal, Protozoan, Bacterial and Viral Pathogens of Honeybees. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9050221. [PMID: 35622749 PMCID: PMC9145064 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9050221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The honeybee Apis mellifera is highly appreciated worldwide because of its products, but also as it is a pollinator of crops and wild plants. The beehive is vulnerable to infections due to arthropods, fungi, protozoa, bacteria and/or viruses that manage to by-pass the individual and social immune mechanisms of bees. Due to the close proximity of bees in the beehive and their foraging habits, infections easily spread within and between beehives. Moreover, international trade of bees has caused the global spread of infections, several of which result in significant losses for apiculture. Only in a few cases can infections be diagnosed with the naked eye, by direct observation of the pathogen in the case of some arthropods, or by pathogen-associated distinctive traits. Development of molecular methods based on the amplification and analysis of one or more genes or genomic segments has brought significant progress to the study of bee pathogens, allowing for: (i) the precise and sensitive identification of the infectious agent; (ii) the analysis of co-infections; (iii) the description of novel species; (iv) associations between geno- and pheno-types and (v) population structure studies. Sequencing of bee pathogen genomes has allowed for the identification of new molecular targets and the development of specific genotypification strategies.
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Techer MA, Roberts JMK, Cartwright RA, Mikheyev AS. The first steps toward a global pandemic: Reconstructing the demographic history of parasite host switches in its native range. Mol Ecol 2022; 31:1358-1374. [PMID: 34882860 PMCID: PMC11105409 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Host switching allows parasites to expand their niches. However, successful switching may require suites of adaptations and also may decrease performance on the old host. As a result, reductions in gene flow accompany many host switches, driving speciation. Because host switches tend to be rapid, it is difficult to study them in real-time, and their demographic parameters remain poorly understood. As a result, fundamental factors that control subsequent parasite evolution, such as the size of the switching population or the extent of immigration from the original host, remain largely unknown. To shed light on the host switching process, we explored how host switches occur in independent host shifts by two ectoparasitic honey bee mites (Varroa destructor and V. jacobsoni). Both switched to the western honey bee (Apis mellifera) after being brought into contact with their ancestral host (Apis cerana), ~70 and ~12 years ago, respectively. Varroa destructor subsequently caused worldwide collapses of honey bee populations. Using whole-genome sequencing on 63 mites collected in their native ranges from both the ancestral and novel hosts, we were able to reconstruct the known temporal dynamics of the switch. We further found multiple previously undiscovered mitochondrial lineages on the novel host, along with the genetic equivalent of tens of individuals that were involved in the initial host switch. Despite being greatly reduced, some gene flow remains between mites adapted to different hosts. Our findings suggest that while reproductive isolation may facilitate the fixation of traits beneficial for exploiting the new host, ongoing genetic exchange may allow genetic amelioration of inbreeding effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maeva A Techer
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Okinawa, Japan
| | - John M K Roberts
- Commonwealth Scientific & Industrial Research Organisation, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Reed A Cartwright
- The Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Alexander S Mikheyev
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Okinawa, Japan
- Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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6
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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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Salkova D, Shumkova R, Balkanska R, Palova N, Neov B, Radoslavov G, Hristov P. Molecular Detection of Nosema spp. in Honey in Bulgaria. Vet Sci 2021; 9:vetsci9010010. [PMID: 35051094 PMCID: PMC8777891 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis is related to screening genetic material of various organisms in environmental samples. Honey represents a natural source of exogenous DNA, which allows for the detection of different honey bee pathogens and parasites. In the present study, we extracted DNA from 20 honey samples from different regions in Bulgaria and tested for the presence of DNA of the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor, as well as Nosema apis and Nosema ceranae. Only Nosema ceranae was detected, showing up in 30% of all samples, which confirms the widespread prevalence of this pathogen. All positive samples were found in plain regions of the country, while this pathogen was not detected in mountainous parts. None of the samples gave positive amplifications for the Nosema apis and Varroa mite. The obtained results from this study confirm previous observations that eDNA contained in honey is a potent source for effective biomonitoring of actual diseases in the honey bee.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delka Salkova
- Department of Experimental Parasitology, Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Rositsa Shumkova
- Research Centre of Stockbreeding and Agriculture, Agricultural Academy, 4700 Smolyan, Bulgaria;
| | - Ralitsa Balkanska
- Department “Special Branches”, Institute of Animal Science, Agricultural Academy, 2230 Kostinbrod, Bulgaria;
| | - Nadezhda Palova
- Scientific Center of Agriculture, Agricultural Academy, 8300 Sredets, Bulgaria;
| | - Boyko Neov
- Department of Animal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (B.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Georgi Radoslavov
- Department of Animal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (B.N.); (G.R.)
| | - Peter Hristov
- Department of Animal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (B.N.); (G.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +359-2-979-2327
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Bila Dubaić J, Simonović S, Plećaš M, Stanisavljević L, Davidović S, Tanasković M, Ćetković A. Unprecedented Density and Persistence of Feral Honey Bees in Urban Environments of a Large SE-European City (Belgrade, Serbia). INSECTS 2021; 12:1127. [PMID: 34940215 PMCID: PMC8706874 DOI: 10.3390/insects12121127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
It is assumed that wild honey bees have become largely extinct across Europe since the 1980s, following the introduction of exotic ectoparasitic mite (Varroa) and the associated spillover of various pathogens. However, several recent studies reported on unmanaged colonies that survived the Varroa mite infestation. Herewith, we present another case of unmanaged, free-living population of honey bees in SE Europe, a rare case of feral bees inhabiting a large and highly populated urban area: Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. We compiled a massive data-set derived from opportunistic citizen science (>1300 records) during the 2011-2017 period and investigated whether these honey bee colonies and the high incidence of swarms could be a result of a stable, self-sustaining feral population (i.e., not of regular inflow of swarms escaping from local managed apiaries), and discussed various explanations for its existence. We also present the possibilities and challenges associated with the detection and effective monitoring of feral/wild honey bees in urban settings, and the role of citizen science in such endeavors. Our results will underpin ongoing initiatives to better understand and support naturally selected resistance mechanisms against the Varroa mite, which should contribute to alleviating current threats and risks to global apiculture and food production security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jovana Bila Dubaić
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.B.D.); (M.P.); (A.Ć.)
| | - Slađan Simonović
- SOS Mobile Team for Rescue and Removal of Honey Bee Swarms and Colonies, Koste Glavinića 12, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Milan Plećaš
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.B.D.); (M.P.); (A.Ć.)
| | - Ljubiša Stanisavljević
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.B.D.); (M.P.); (A.Ć.)
| | - Slobodan Davidović
- Department of Genetics of Populations and Ecogenotoxicology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.D.); (M.T.)
| | - Marija Tanasković
- Department of Genetics of Populations and Ecogenotoxicology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.D.); (M.T.)
| | - Aleksandar Ćetković
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.B.D.); (M.P.); (A.Ć.)
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Bai WF, Lin ZG, Yan WY, Zhang LZ, Evans JD, Huang Q. Haplotype Analysis of Varroa destructor and Deformed Wing Virus Using Long Reads. FRONTIERS IN INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 1:756886. [PMID: 38468896 PMCID: PMC10926369 DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2021.756886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
As a phoretic parasite and virus vector, the mite Varroa destructor and the associated Deformed wing virus (DWV) form a lethal combination to the honey bee, Apis mellifera. Routine acaricide treatment has been reported to reduce the diversity of mites and select for tolerance against these treatments. Further, different DWV strains face selective pressures when transmitted via mites. In this study, the haplotypes of Varroa mites and associated DWV variants were quantified using long reads. A single haplotype dominated the mite mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I, reflecting an ancient bottleneck. However, highly polymorphic genes were present across the mite genome, suggesting the diversity of mites could be actively maintained at a regional level. DWV detected in both mites and honey bees show a dominant variant with only a few low-frequency alternate haplotypes. The relative abundances of DWV haplotypes isolated from honey bees and mites were highly consistent, suggesting that some variants are favored by ongoing selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Feng Bai
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhe Guang Lin
- Apicultural Research Institute, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Wei Yu Yan
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Li Zhen Zhang
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jay D. Evans
- United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville, MD, United States
| | - Qiang Huang
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Honeybee Biology and Beekeeping, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
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Koç N, İnak E, Jonckheere W, Van Leeuwen T. Genetic analysis and screening of pyrethroid resistance mutations in Varroa destructor populations from Turkey. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2021; 84:433-444. [PMID: 33983538 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-021-00626-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is the most common ectoparasite of the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) worldwide and poses a serious threat to bee health. Synthetic acaricides, particularly pyrethroids, are frequently used to control Varroa mites. However, long-term and repeated use of synthetic pyrethroids has led to the development of resistance. In this study, we report on the presence of resistance mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel in V. destructor populations from Turkish beekeeping areas. Two resistance mutations, L925V and L925I, that were previously associated with pyrethroid resistance, were found in more than 75% of the populations. A general correlation between the presence of mutations and the history of acaricide usage was observed for the sampled hives. In addition, we show there is only a low genetic distance among the sampled V. destructor populations, based on the analysis of three mitochondrial genes: cytochrome b (cytb), ATP synthase subunit 6 (atp6), and cytochrome c oxidase subunit III (cox3). Revealing the presence and geographical distribution of pyrethroid resistance mutations in V. destructor populations from Turkish apiaries will contribute to create more effective mite management programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nafiye Koç
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Diskapi, 06110, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Emre İnak
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Ankara University, Diskapi, 06110, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Wim Jonckheere
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thomas Van Leeuwen
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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Moro A, Blacquière T, Dahle B, Dietemann V, Le Conte Y, Locke B, Neumann P, Beaurepaire A. Adaptive population structure shifts in invasive parasitic mites, Varroa destructor. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:5937-5949. [PMID: 34141194 PMCID: PMC8207383 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Comparative studies of genetic diversity and population structure can shed light on the ecological and evolutionary factors governing host-parasite interactions. Even though invasive parasites are considered of major biological importance, little is known about their adaptative potential when infesting the new hosts. Here, the genetic diversification of Varroa destructor, a novel parasite of Apis mellifera originating from Asia, was investigated using population genetics to determine how the genetic structure of the parasite changed in distinct European populations of its new host. To do so, mites infesting two categories of hosts in four European regions were compared: (a) adapted hosts surviving through means of natural selection, thereby expected to impose strong selective pressure on the mites, and (b) treated host populations, surviving mite infestations because acaricides are applied, therefore characterized by a relaxed selection imposed by the host on the mites. Significant genetic divergence was found across regions, partially reflecting the invasion pattern of V. destructor throughout Europe and indicating local adaptation of the mite to the host populations. Additionally, varying degrees of genotypic changes were found between mites from adapted and treated colonies. Altogether, these results indicate that V. destructor managed to overcome the genetic bottlenecks following its introduction in Europe and that host-mediated selection fostered changes in the genetic structure of this mite at diverse geographic scales. These findings highlight the potential of parasites to adapt to their local host populations and confirm that adaptations developed within coevolutionary dynamics are a major determinant of population genetic changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arrigo Moro
- Vetsuisse FacultyInstitute of Bee HealthUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Swiss Bee Research CenterAgroscopeBernSwitzerland
| | | | - Bjørn Dahle
- Norwegian Beekeepers AssociationKløftaNorway
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource ManagementNorwegian University of Life SciencesÅsNorway
| | - Vincent Dietemann
- Swiss Bee Research CenterAgroscopeBernSwitzerland
- Department of Ecology and EvolutionUniversity of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | | | - Barbara Locke
- Department of EcologySwedish University of Agricultural SciencesUppsalaSweden
| | - Peter Neumann
- Vetsuisse FacultyInstitute of Bee HealthUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Swiss Bee Research CenterAgroscopeBernSwitzerland
| | - Alexis Beaurepaire
- Vetsuisse FacultyInstitute of Bee HealthUniversity of BernBernSwitzerland
- Swiss Bee Research CenterAgroscopeBernSwitzerland
- UR 406 Abeilles et EnvironnementINRAEAvignonFrance
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12
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Fonseca PLC, Mucherino M JJ, Porto JAM, Armache JN, de Almeida JPP, da Silva FF, Olmo RP, Faria IJDS, de Carvalho DS, Góes-Neto A, Corrêa RX, Pirovani CP, Pacheco LGC, Costa MA, Aguiar ERGR. Genome-wide identification of miRNAs and target regulatory network in the invasive ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor. Genomics 2021; 113:2290-2303. [PMID: 34044154 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is an ectoparasite mite that attacks bees leading to colony disorders worldwide. microRNAs (miRNAs) are key molecules used by eukaryotes to post-transcriptional control of gene expression. Nevertheless, still lack information aboutV. destructor miRNAs and its regulatory networks. Here, we used an integrative strategy to characterize the miRNAs in the V. destructor mite. We identified 310 precursors that give rise to 500 mature miRNAs, which 257 are likely mite-specific elements. miRNAs showed canonical length ranging between 18 and 25 nucleotides and 5' uracil preference. Top 10 elements concentrated over 80% of total miRNA expression, with bantam alone representing ~50%. We also detected non-templated bases in precursor-derived small RNAs, indicative of miRNA post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. Finally, we note that conserved miRNAs control similar processes in different organisms, suggesting a conservative role. Altogether, our findings contribute to the better understanding of the mite biology that can assist future studies on varroosis control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula L C Fonseca
- Department of Microbiology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais CEP 30270-901, Brazil
| | - Jonathan J Mucherino M
- Department of Biological Science (DCB), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Rodovia Jorge Amado km 16, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil; Department of Forest Management, Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Mérida 5101, Venezuela
| | - Joel A M Porto
- Department of Biological Science (DCB), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Rodovia Jorge Amado km 16, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Juliana N Armache
- Bioinformatics Program, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais CEP 30270-901, Brazil
| | - João Paulo P de Almeida
- Bioinformatics Program, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais CEP 30270-901, Brazil
| | - Felipe F da Silva
- Bioinformatics Program, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais CEP 30270-901, Brazil
| | - Roenick P Olmo
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS UPR9022, Inserm, Strasbourg, France
| | - Isaque J da S Faria
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais CEP 30270-901, Brazil
| | - Daniel S de Carvalho
- Bioinformatics Program, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais CEP 30270-901, Brazil
| | - Aristóteles Góes-Neto
- Department of Microbiology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais CEP 30270-901, Brazil; Bioinformatics Program, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais CEP 30270-901, Brazil
| | - Ronan X Corrêa
- Department of Biological Science (DCB), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Rodovia Jorge Amado km 16, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Carlos P Pirovani
- Department of Biological Science (DCB), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Rodovia Jorge Amado km 16, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Luis G C Pacheco
- Institute of Health Sciences, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Marco Antônio Costa
- Department of Biological Science (DCB), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Rodovia Jorge Amado km 16, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Eric R G R Aguiar
- Department of Biological Science (DCB), Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz (UESC), Rodovia Jorge Amado km 16, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil.
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13
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Düttmann C, Flores B, Sheleby-Elías J, Castillo G, Osejo H, Bermudez S, Demedio J. Morphotype and haplotype identification of Varroa destructor (Acari: Varroidae), and its importance for apiculture in Nicaragua. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2021; 83:527-544. [PMID: 33687585 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-021-00603-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The ectoparasite Varroa (Acari: Varroidae) is considered to be the main pest of honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) in Nicaragua. The aim of this study was to determine morphotypes and mitochondrial haplotypes of the Varroa mites, related to infestation levels in A. mellifera hives in Nicaragua in a cross-sectional study (2013-2016). Samples were taken from 34 sentinel apiaries in five geographical zones; from 713 Varroa females collected during the study, 153 were selected for measurement of various morphometric characters for further classification into morphotypes. The mitochondrial haplotype was assigned to one of the two (Korean or Japanese), using the restriction by SacI of the PCR product of a fragment of the gene CO-I. Morphometric measurement and sequencing revealed the affiliation to the species Varroa destructor with a mean (± SD) body width of 1699.1 ± 60.2 µm and a body length of 1161.1 ± 34.9 µm. Body characters were significantly different among the 34 apiaries. Varroa destructor samples were classified into four morphotypes, with no significant differences in the geographical zones. As GAGCTC SacI enzyme cleavage sequences were not observed, all PCR products were identified as V. destructor Korean haplotype. The CO-I gene nucleotide sequences from two samples V. destructor showed both 100% similarity with the Korean haplotype and 99.8% similarity to the Japanese haplotype. Although the V. destructor mite was identified as a Korean haplotype, host-parasite association in 2 decades has led into a balance without entering into severe losses in the Nicaraguan apiculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Düttmann
- Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico e Investigación (CEVEDI), Escuela de Ciencias Agrarias y Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua-León, León, Nicaragua
| | - Byron Flores
- Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico e Investigación (CEVEDI), Escuela de Ciencias Agrarias y Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua-León, León, Nicaragua.
| | - Jessica Sheleby-Elías
- Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico e Investigación (CEVEDI), Escuela de Ciencias Agrarias y Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua-León, León, Nicaragua
| | - Gladys Castillo
- Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico e Investigación (CEVEDI), Escuela de Ciencias Agrarias y Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua-León, León, Nicaragua
| | - Henry Osejo
- Centro Veterinario de Diagnóstico e Investigación (CEVEDI), Escuela de Ciencias Agrarias y Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua-León, León, Nicaragua
| | - Sergio Bermudez
- Instituto Conmemorativo Gorgas de Estudios de la Salud, Panama, Panama
- Estación Científica Coiba AIP, Panama, Panama
| | - Jorge Demedio
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Agraria de la Habana, Habana, Cuba
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14
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Moro A, Blacquière T, Panziera D, Dietemann V, Neumann P. Host-Parasite Co-Evolution in Real-Time: Changes in Honey Bee Resistance Mechanisms and Mite Reproductive Strategies. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12020120. [PMID: 33572966 PMCID: PMC7911685 DOI: 10.3390/insects12020120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Parasitic mites, Varroa destructor, are a major threat for Western honey bees, Apismellifera, colonies globally. Nevertheless, some honey bee populations can survive infestations with this mite, probably due to behaviors that suppress parasite reproduction. However, possible changes in mites associated with these surviving bees and the potential variations of bee behavior over time are poorly understood. Here, we show that mites can change their reproduction when associated with surviving hosts and that the bee behaviors suppressing mite reproduction can vary over time. In a fully-crossed field experiment on Dutch surviving colonies (Amsterdam Water Dunes (AWD) selection), worker brood cell recapping and varroa sensitive hygiene (VSH) performed by bees and mite reproductive parameters were investigated. Neither recapping nor VSH were significantly expressed even though a previous study showed VSH in these AWD bees. A larger proportion of mites that co-evolved with AWD surviving bees reproduced compared to mites in routinely treated colonies, but had lower fecundity. Overall, our study suggests that honeybee colonies can survive infestations with these mites by not yet understood means and shows for the first time adaptive changes in the reproduction of their coevolved mites. Abstract Co-evolution is a major driving force shaping the outcome of host-parasite interactions over time. After host shifts, the lack of co-evolution can have a drastic impact on novel host populations. Nevertheless, it is known that Western honey bee (Apismellifera) populations can cope with host-shifted ectoparasitic mites (Varroa destructor) by means of natural selection. However, adaptive phenotypic traits of the parasites and temporal variations in host resistance behavior are poorly understood. Here, we show that mites made adaptive shifts in reproductive strategy when associated with resistant hosts and that host resistance traits can change over time. In a fully-crossed field experiment, worker brood cells of local adapted and non-adapted (control) A.mellifera host colonies were infested with mites originating from both types of host colonies. Then, mite reproduction as well as recapping of cells and removal of infested brood (i.e., Varroa Sensitive Hygiene, VSH) by host workers were investigated and compared to data from the same groups of host colonies three years earlier. The data suggest adaptive shifts in mite reproductive strategies, because mites from adapted hosts have higher probabilities of reproduction, but lower fecundity, when infesting their associated hosts than mites in treated colonies. The results confirm that adapted hosts can reduce mite reproductive success. However, neither recapping of cells nor VSH were significantly expressed, even though the latter was significantly expressed in this adapted population three years earlier. This suggests temporal variation in the expression of adaptive host traits. It also appears as if mechanisms not investigated here were responsible for the reduced mite reproduction in the adapted hosts. In conclusion, a holistic view including mite adaptations and studies of the same parasite/host populations over time appears overdue to finally understand the mechanisms enabling survival of V.destructor-infested honey bee host colonies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arrigo Moro
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3097 Bern, Switzerland;
- Agroscope, Swiss Bee Research Center, CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland;
- Correspondence:
| | - Tjeerd Blacquière
- Wageningen Plant Research, Wageningen University & Research, 6708PB-1 Wageningen, The Netherlands; (T.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Delphine Panziera
- Wageningen Plant Research, Wageningen University & Research, 6708PB-1 Wageningen, The Netherlands; (T.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Vincent Dietemann
- Agroscope, Swiss Bee Research Center, CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland;
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Peter Neumann
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, CH-3097 Bern, Switzerland;
- Agroscope, Swiss Bee Research Center, CH-3003 Bern, Switzerland;
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15
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Lin Z, Wang S, Neumann P, Chen G, Page P, Li L, Hu F, Zheng H, Dietemann V. Population genetics and host specificity of Varroa destructor mites infesting eastern and western honeybees. JOURNAL OF PEST SCIENCE 2021; 94:1487-1504. [PMID: 34720788 PMCID: PMC8549952 DOI: 10.1007/s10340-020-01322-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In a globalized world, parasites are often brought in contact with new potential hosts. When parasites successfully shift host, severe diseases can emerge at a large cost to society. However, the evolutionary processes leading to successful shifts are rarely understood, hindering risk assessment, prevention, or mitigation of their effects. Here, we screened populations of Varroa destructor, an ectoparasitic mite of the honeybee genus Apis, to investigate their genetic structure and reproductive potential on new and original hosts. From the patterns identified, we deduce the factors that influenced the macro- and microevolutionary processes that led to the structure observed. Among the mite variants identified, we found two genetically similar populations that differed in their reproductive abilities and thus in their host specificity. These lineages could interbreed, which represents a threat due to the possible increased virulence of the parasite on its original host. However, interbreeding was unidirectional from the host-shifted to the nonshifted native mites and could thus lead to speciation of the former. The results improve our understanding of the processes affecting the population structure and evolution of this economically important mite genus and suggest that introgression between shifted and nonshifted lineages may endanger the original host. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10340-020-01322-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheguang Lin
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Peter Neumann
- Swiss Bee Research Center, Agroscope, Bern, Switzerland
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Gongwen Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Paul Page
- Swiss Bee Research Center, Agroscope, Bern, Switzerland
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Li Li
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fuliang Hu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huoqing Zheng
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Vincent Dietemann
- Swiss Bee Research Center, Agroscope, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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16
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Hernández-Rodríguez CS, Marín Ó, Calatayud F, Mahiques MJ, Mompó A, Segura I, Simó E, González-Cabrera J. Large-Scale Monitoring of Resistance to Coumaphos, Amitraz, and Pyrethroids in Varroa destructor. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12010027. [PMID: 33406622 PMCID: PMC7824307 DOI: 10.3390/insects12010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Varroa destructor, a parasitic mite of Apis mellifera, is causing severe damages to honey bee colonies worldwide. There are very few acaricides available to manage the parasite, and so the evolution of the mite’s resistance to acaricides poses a serious threat to controlling the mite. Using a combined approach that includes bioassays and genotyping, we estimated the expected efficacy of the treatments with acaricide products based on coumaphos, amitraz, and pyrethroids in apiaries from one of the most important beekeeping regions in Spain. This information was shared with the beekeeping community so that they can take informed and scientific-based decisions in the most convenient way to manage the parasite. Abstract Varroa destructor is an ectoparasitic mite causing devastating damages to honey bee colonies around the world. Its impact is considered a major factor contributing to the significant seasonal losses of colonies recorded every year. Beekeepers usually rely on a reduced set of acaricides to manage the parasite, usually the pyrethroids tau-fluvalinate or flumethrin, the organophosphate coumaphos, and the formamidine amitraz. However, the evolution of resistance in the mite populations is leading to an unsustainable scenario with almost no alternatives to reach an adequate control of the mite. Here, we present the results from the first large-scale and extensive monitoring of the susceptibility to acaricides in the Comunitat Valenciana, one of the most prominent apicultural regions in Spain. Our ultimate goal is to provide beekeepers with timely information to help them decide what would be the best alternative for a long-term control of the mites in their apiaries. Our data show that there is a significant variation in the expected efficacy of coumaphos and pyrethroids across the region, indicating the presence of a different ratio of resistant individuals to these acaricides in each population. On the other hand, the expected efficacy of amitraz was more consistent, though slightly below the expected efficacy according to the label.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Sara Hernández-Rodríguez
- Instituto Universitario de Biotecnología y Biomedicina (BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Dr. Moliner 50, 46100 Burjassot, Spain; (C.S.H.-R.); (Ó.M.)
| | - Óscar Marín
- Instituto Universitario de Biotecnología y Biomedicina (BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Dr. Moliner 50, 46100 Burjassot, Spain; (C.S.H.-R.); (Ó.M.)
| | - Fernando Calatayud
- Agrupación de Defensa Sanitaria Apícola APIADS, Calle Raval 75B, 46193 Montroi, Spain; (F.C.); (E.S.)
| | - María José Mahiques
- Agrupación de Defensa Sanitaria Apícola APICAL y APIVAL, C/Sants de la Pedra 75, 03830 Muro de Alcoy, Spain; (M.J.M.); (A.M.); (I.S.)
| | - Ana Mompó
- Agrupación de Defensa Sanitaria Apícola APICAL y APIVAL, C/Sants de la Pedra 75, 03830 Muro de Alcoy, Spain; (M.J.M.); (A.M.); (I.S.)
| | - Inmaculada Segura
- Agrupación de Defensa Sanitaria Apícola APICAL y APIVAL, C/Sants de la Pedra 75, 03830 Muro de Alcoy, Spain; (M.J.M.); (A.M.); (I.S.)
| | - Enrique Simó
- Agrupación de Defensa Sanitaria Apícola APIADS, Calle Raval 75B, 46193 Montroi, Spain; (F.C.); (E.S.)
| | - Joel González-Cabrera
- Instituto Universitario de Biotecnología y Biomedicina (BIOTECMED), Universitat de València, Dr. Moliner 50, 46100 Burjassot, Spain; (C.S.H.-R.); (Ó.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-963-543-122
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17
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Le Conte Y, Meixner MD, Brandt A, Carreck NL, Costa C, Mondet F, Büchler R. Geographical Distribution and Selection of European Honey Bees Resistant to Varroa destructor. INSECTS 2020; 11:E873. [PMID: 33302465 PMCID: PMC7764010 DOI: 10.3390/insects11120873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Developing resistance to the varroa mite in honey bees is a major goal for apicultural science and practice, the development of selection strategies and the availability of resistant stock. Here we present an extended literature review and survey of resistant populations and selection programs in the EU and elsewhere, including expert interviews. We illustrate the practical experiences of scientists, beekeepers, and breeders in search of resistant bees. We describe numerous resistant populations surviving without acaricide treatments, most of which developed under natural infestation pressure. Their common characteristics: reduced brood development; limited mite population growth; and low mite reproduction, may cause conflict with the interests of commercial beekeeping. Since environmental factors affect varroa mite resistance, particular honey bee strains must be evaluated under different local conditions and colony management. The resistance traits of grooming, hygienic behavior and mite reproduction, together with simple testing of mite population development and colony survival, are significant in recent selection programs. Advanced breeding techniques and genetic and physiological selection tools will be essential in the future. Despite huge demand, there is no well-established market for resistant stock in Europe. Moreover, reliable experience or experimental evidence regarding the resistance of stocks under different environmental and management conditions is still lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yves Le Conte
- INRAE, Abeilles et Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France;
| | - Marina D. Meixner
- Landesbetrieb Landwirtschaft Hessen, Bee Institute, Erlenstrasse 9, 35274 Kirchhain, Germany; (M.D.M.); (A.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Annely Brandt
- Landesbetrieb Landwirtschaft Hessen, Bee Institute, Erlenstrasse 9, 35274 Kirchhain, Germany; (M.D.M.); (A.B.); (R.B.)
| | - Norman L. Carreck
- Carreck Consultancy Ltd., Woodside Cottage, Dragons Lane, Shipley RH13 8GD, West Sussex, UK;
- Laboratory of Apiculture and Social Insects, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QG, East Sussex, UK
| | - Cecilia Costa
- CREA Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment, via di Saliceto 80, 40128 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Fanny Mondet
- INRAE, Abeilles et Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France;
| | - Ralph Büchler
- Landesbetrieb Landwirtschaft Hessen, Bee Institute, Erlenstrasse 9, 35274 Kirchhain, Germany; (M.D.M.); (A.B.); (R.B.)
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18
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Varroa destructor: how does it harm Apis mellifera honey bees and what can be done about it? Emerg Top Life Sci 2020; 4:45-57. [PMID: 32537655 PMCID: PMC7326341 DOI: 10.1042/etls20190125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Since its migration from the Asian honey bee (Apis cerana) to the European honey bee (Apis mellifera), the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor has emerged as a major issue for beekeeping worldwide. Due to a short history of coevolution, the host–parasite relationship between A. mellifera and V. destructor is unbalanced, with honey bees suffering infestation effects at the individual, colony and population levels. Several control solutions have been developed to tackle the colony and production losses due to Varroa, but the burden caused by the mite in combination with other biotic and abiotic factors continues to increase, weakening the beekeeping industry. In this synthetic review, we highlight the main advances made between 2015 and 2020 on V. destructor biology and its impact on the health of the honey bee, A. mellifera. We also describe the main control solutions that are currently available to fight the mite and place a special focus on new methodological developments, which point to integrated pest management strategies for the control of Varroa in honey bee colonies.
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19
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Unraveling Honey Bee- Varroa destructor Interaction: Multiple Factors Involved in Differential Resistance between Two Uruguayan Populations. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7030116. [PMID: 32825255 PMCID: PMC7558146 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7030116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The ectoparasite Varroa destructor is the greatest biotic threat of honey bees Apis mellifera in vast regions of the world. Recently, the study of natural mite-resistant populations has gained much interest to understand the action of natural selection on the mechanisms that limit the mite population. In this study, the components of the A. mellifera–V. destructor relationship were thoroughly examined and compared in resistant and susceptible honey bee populations from two regions of Uruguay. Mite-resistant honey bees have greater behavioral resistance (hygienic and grooming behaviors) than susceptible honey bees. At the end of the summer, resistant honey bees had fewer mites and a lower deformed wing virus (DWV) viral load than susceptible honey bees. DWV variant A was the only detected variant in honey bees and mites. Molecular analysis by Short Tandem Repeat showed that resistant honey bees were Africanized (A. m. scutellata hybrids), whereas susceptible honey bees were closer to European subspecies. Furthermore, significant genetic differentiation was also found between the mite populations. The obtained results show that the natural resistance of honey bees to V. destructor in Uruguay depends on several factors and that the genetic variants of both organisms can play a relevant role.
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20
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Individual-Level Comparisons of Honey Bee (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) Hygienic Behavior Towards Brood Infested with Varroa destructor (Parasitiformes: Varroidae) or Tropilaelaps mercedesae (Mesostigmata: Laelapidae). INSECTS 2020; 11:insects11080510. [PMID: 32784569 PMCID: PMC7469190 DOI: 10.3390/insects11080510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The mites Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman and Tropilaelaps mercedesae Anderson and Morgan are both serious threats to the Apis mellifera beekeeping industry. A trait frequently used in selection programs for V. destructor resistance is hygienic behavior, the selective removal of diseased/damaged brood. Here, we measured the level of association of the expression of hygienic behavior against both mites in A. mellifera, by observing whether the same individual bees would carry out the opening and removal of brood infested by the two parasites. The groups of bees showing these behaviors on cells artificially infested by either parasite showed a large overlap, making it appear likely that the two traits are at least closely coupled. Therefore, breeding for V. destructor resistance based on hygienic behavior could prepare A. mellifera populations for dealing with Tropilaelaps sp. mites, and vice versa. Using the same bioassay, we also compared the hygienic behavior of A. mellifera towards T. mercedesae to that of the Asiatic honey bee, Apis cerana. A. cerana workers eliminated a greater proportion of infested cells, which may in part explain the resistance of this bee to Tropilaelaps and the observation that Tropilaelaps reproduction on brood of this species is extremely rare.
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21
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Eliash N, Mikheyev A. Varroa mite evolution: a neglected aspect of worldwide bee collapses? CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2020; 39:21-26. [PMID: 32088383 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2019.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
While ectoparasitic Varroa mites cause minimal damage to their co-evolved ancestral host, the eastern honey bee (Apis cerana), they devastate their novel host, the western honey bee (Apis mellifera). Over several decades, the host switch caused worldwide population collapses, threatening global food security. Varroa management strategies have focused on breeding bees for tolerance. But, can Varroa overcome these counter-adaptations in a classic coevolutionary arms race? Despite increasing evidence for Varroa genetic diversity and evolvability, this eventuality has largely been neglected. We therefore suggest a more holistic paradigm for studying this host-parasite interaction, one in which 'Varroa-tolerant' bee traits should be viewed as a shared phenotype resulting from Varroa and honey bee interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurit Eliash
- Institute of Plant Protection, Agricultural Research Organization, The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel; Ecology and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna-son, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Alexander Mikheyev
- Ecology and Evolution Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna-son, Okinawa, Japan; Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
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Varroa destructor: A Complex Parasite, Crippling Honey Bees Worldwide. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:592-606. [PMID: 32456963 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The parasitic mite, Varroa destructor, has shaken the beekeeping and pollination industries since its spread from its native host, the Asian honey bee (Apis cerana), to the naïve European honey bee (Apis mellifera) used commercially for pollination and honey production around the globe. Varroa is the greatest threat to honey bee health. Worrying observations include increasing acaricide resistance in the varroa population and sinking economic treatment thresholds, suggesting that the mites or their vectored viruses are becoming more virulent. Highly infested weak colonies facilitate mite dispersal and disease transmission to stronger and healthier colonies. Here, we review recent developments in the biology, pathology, and management of varroa, and integrate older knowledge that is less well known.
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23
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Honey bee survival mechanisms against the parasite Varroa destructor: a systematic review of phenotypic and genomic research efforts. Int J Parasitol 2020; 50:433-447. [PMID: 32380096 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor is the most significant pathological threat to the western honey bee, Apis mellifera, leading to the death of most colonies if left untreated. An alternative approach to chemical treatments is to selectively enhance heritable honey bee traits of resistance or tolerance to the mite through breeding programs, or select for naturally surviving untreated colonies. We conducted a literature review of all studies documenting traits of A. mellifera populations either selectively bred or naturally selected for resistance and tolerance to mite parasitism. This allowed us to conduct an analysis of the diversity, distribution and importance of the traits in different honey bee populations that can survive V. destructor globally. In a second analysis, we investigated the genetic bases of these different phenotypes by comparing 'omics studies (genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics) of A. mellifera resistance and tolerance to the parasite. Altogether, this review provides a detailed overview of the current state of the research projects and breeding efforts against the most devastating parasite of A. mellifera. By highlighting the most promising traits of Varroa-surviving bees and our current knowledge on their genetic bases, this work will help direct future research efforts and selection programs to control this pest. Additionally, by comparing the diverse populations of honey bees that exhibit those traits, this review highlights the consequences of anthropogenic and natural selection in the interactions between hosts and parasites.
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Norton AM, Remnant EJ, Buchmann G, Beekman M. Accumulation and Competition Amongst Deformed Wing Virus Genotypes in Naïve Australian Honeybees Provides Insight Into the Increasing Global Prevalence of Genotype B. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:620. [PMID: 32328051 PMCID: PMC7160646 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Honeybee colony deaths are often attributed to the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor and deformed wing virus (DWV), vectored by the mite. In the presence of V. destructor both main genotypes (DWV-A and DWV-B) have been correlated with colony loss. Studies show that DWV-B is the most prevalent genotype in the United Kingdom and Europe. More recently DWV-B has increased in prevalence in the United States. The increasing prevalence of DWV-B at the expense of DWV-A suggests that competition exists between the genotypes. Competition may be due to disparities in virulence between genotypes, differences in fitness, such as rate of replication, or a combination of factors. In this study we investigated if DWV genotypes differ in their rate of accumulation in Australian honeybees naïve to both V. destructor and DWV, and if viral load was associated with mortality in honeybee pupae. We singly and co-infected pupae with DWV-A, DWV-B, and a recombinant strain isolated from a V. destructor tolerant bee population. We monitored viral accumulation throughout pupation, up to 192 h post-injection. We found significant differences in accumulation, where DWV-A accumulated to significantly lower loads than DWV-B and the DWV-recombinant. We also found evidence of competition, where DWV-B loads were significantly reduced in the presence of DWV-A, but still accumulated to the highest loads overall. In contrast to previous studies, we found significant differences in virulence between pupae injected with DWV-A and DWV-B. The average mortality associated with DWV-B (0.4% ± 0.33 SE) and DWV-recombinant (2.2% ± 0.83 SE) injection were significantly less than observed for DWV-A (11% ± 1.2 SE). Our results suggest that a higher proportion of DWV-B infected pupae will emerge into adults, compared to DWV-A. Overall, our data suggest that low mortality in pupae and the ability of DWV-B to accumulate to higher loads relative to DWV-A even during co-infection may favor vector transmission by V. destructor, and may thus be contributing factors to the increasing prevalence of DWV-B globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M. Norton
- Behaviour, Ecology and Evolution (BEE) Laboratory, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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25
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Muntaabski I, Russo RM, Liendo MC, Palacio MA, Cladera JL, Lanzavecchia SB, Scannapieco AC. Genetic variation and heteroplasmy of Varroa destructor inferred from ND4 mtDNA sequences. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:411-421. [PMID: 31915912 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06591-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor, a parasitic mite of the western honey bee, Apis mellifera L., is a serious threat to colonies and beekeeping worldwide. Population genetics studies of the mite have provided information on two mitochondrial haplotypes infecting honey bee colonies, named K and J (after Korea and Japan, respectively, where they were originally identified). On the American continent, the K haplotype is much more prevalent, with the J haplotype only detected in some areas of Brazil. The aims of the present study were to assess the genetic diversity of V. destructor populations in the major beekeeping region of Argentina and to evaluate the presence of heteroplasmy at the nucleotide level. Phoretic mites were collected from managed A. mellifera colonies in ten localities, and four mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) regions (COXI, ND4, ND4L, and ND5) were analyzed. Based on cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COXI) sequencing, exclusively the K haplotype of V. destructor was detected. Furthermore, two sub-haplotypes (KArg-N1 and KArg-N2) were identified from a variation in ND4 sequences and the frequency of these sub-haplotypes was found to significantly correlate with geographical latitude. The occurrence of site heteroplasmy was also evident for this gene. Therefore, ND4 appears to be a sensitive marker for detecting genetic variability in mite populations. Site heteroplasmy emerges as a phenomenon that could be relatively frequent in V. destructor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Muntaabski
- Instituto de Genética "E. A. Favret", Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Grupo vinculado al Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) - CONICET, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Romina M Russo
- Instituto de Genética "E. A. Favret", Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Grupo vinculado al Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) - CONICET, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María C Liendo
- Instituto de Genética "E. A. Favret", Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Grupo vinculado al Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) - CONICET, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María A Palacio
- Unidad Integrada INTA - Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge L Cladera
- Instituto de Genética "E. A. Favret", Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Grupo vinculado al Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) - CONICET, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia B Lanzavecchia
- Instituto de Genética "E. A. Favret", Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Grupo vinculado al Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) - CONICET, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alejandra C Scannapieco
- Instituto de Genética "E. A. Favret", Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Grupo vinculado al Instituto de Agrobiotecnología y Biología Molecular (IABIMO) - CONICET, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Consejo de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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26
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Techer MA, Rane RV, Grau ML, Roberts JMK, Sullivan ST, Liachko I, Childers AK, Evans JD, Mikheyev AS. Divergent evolutionary trajectories following speciation in two ectoparasitic honey bee mites. Commun Biol 2019; 2:357. [PMID: 31583288 PMCID: PMC6773775 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-019-0606-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Multispecies host-parasite evolution is common, but how parasites evolve after speciating remains poorly understood. Shared evolutionary history and physiology may propel species along similar evolutionary trajectories whereas pursuing different strategies can reduce competition. We test these scenarios in the economically important association between honey bees and ectoparasitic mites by sequencing the genomes of the sister mite species Varroa destructor and Varroa jacobsoni. These genomes were closely related, with 99.7% sequence identity. Among the 9,628 orthologous genes, 4.8% showed signs of positive selection in at least one species. Divergent selective trajectories were discovered in conserved chemosensory gene families (IGR, SNMP), and Halloween genes (CYP) involved in moulting and reproduction. However, there was little overlap in these gene sets and associated GO terms, indicating different selective regimes operating on each of the parasites. Based on our findings, we suggest that species-specific strategies may be needed to combat evolving parasite communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maeva A. Techer
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, 1919-1 Tancha Onna-son, 904-0495 Okinawa, Japan
| | - Rahul V. Rane
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Clunies Ross St, (GPO Box 1700), Acton, ACT 2601 Australia
- Bio21 Institute, School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, 30 Flemington Road, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Miguel L. Grau
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, 1919-1 Tancha Onna-son, 904-0495 Okinawa, Japan
| | - John M. K. Roberts
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Clunies Ross St, (GPO Box 1700), Acton, ACT 2601 Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Alexander S. Mikheyev
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, 1919-1 Tancha Onna-son, 904-0495 Okinawa, Japan
- Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600 Australia
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Population genetics of ectoparasitic mites suggest arms race with honeybee hosts. Sci Rep 2019; 9:11355. [PMID: 31388048 PMCID: PMC6684582 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-47801-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The ectoparasitic mite, Varroa destructor, is the most severe biotic threat to honeybees (Apis mellifera) globally, usually causing colony death within a few years without treatments. While it is known that a few A. mellifera populations survive mite infestations by means of natural selection, the possible role of mite adaptations remains unclear. To investigate potential changes in mite populations in response to host adaptations, the genetic structure of V. destructor in the mite-resistant A. mellifera population on Gotland, Sweden, was studied. Spatio-temporal genetic changes were assessed by comparing mites collected in these colonies, as well as from neighboring mite-susceptible colonies, in historic (2009) and current (2017/2018) samples. The results show significant changes in the genetic structure of the mite populations during the time frame of this study. These changes were more pronounced in the V. destructor population infesting the mite-resistant honeybee colonies than in the mite-susceptible colonies. These results suggest that V. destructor populations are reciprocating, in a coevolutionary arms race, to the selection pressure induced by their honeybee host. Our data reveal exciting new insights into host-parasite interactions between A. mellifera and its major parasite.
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28
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Abstract
Host shifts of parasites are often causing devastating effects in the new hosts. The Varroa genus is known for a lineage of Varroa destructor that shifted to the Western honey bee, Apis mellifera, with disastrous effects on wild populations and the beekeeping industry. Despite this, the biology of Varroa spp. remains poorly understood in its native distribution range, where it naturally parasitizes the Eastern honey bee, Apis cerana. Here, we combined mitochondrial and nuclear DNA analyses with the assessment of mite reproduction to determine the population structure and host specificity of V. destructor and Varroa jacobsonii in Thailand, where both hosts and several Varroa species and haplotypes are sympatric. Our data confirm previously described mite haplogroups, and show three novel haplotypes. Multiple infestations of single host colonies by both mite species and introgression of alleles between V. destructor and V. jacobsonii suggest that hybridization occurs between the two species. Our results indicate that host specificity and population genetic structure in the genus Varroa is more labile than previously thought. The ability of the host shifted V. destructor haplotype to spillback to A. cerana and to hybridize with V. jacobsonii could threaten honey bee populations of Asia and beyond.
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29
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Gajić B, Muñoz I, De la Rúa P, Stevanović J, Lakić N, Kulišić Z, Stanimirović Z. Coexistence of genetically different Varroa destructor in Apis mellifera colonies. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2019; 78:315-326. [PMID: 31197529 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-019-00395-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity of Varroa destructor parasitizing Apis mellifera colonies and to test for possible host-parasite association at the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) level. Six A. mellifera haplotypes (including a novel C2aa) and five haplotypes of V. destructor were detected in 29 analyzed colonies from eight sampling sites in Serbia. We revealed the presence of the K and S1 haplotypes as well as KS1 and KP1 heteroplasmic mite individuals in all localities, while the P1 haplotype was only found in four sampling sites. Significant differences in V. destructor genetic diversity were found at both apiary and colony levels, with mite haplotypes coexisting in almost all tested colonies. In addition, a significant correlation between the number of analyzed mites per colony and the number of identified V. destructor haplotypes was observed. However, no significant host-parasite relationship was found, suggesting that mites bearing different haplotypes as well as those heteroplasmic individuals are well adapted to the host, A. mellifera, independently of the identified haplotype present in each colony. Our results will contribute to future population and biogeographic studies concerning V. destructor infesting A. mellifera, as well as to better understanding their host-parasite relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bojan Gajić
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Irene Muñoz
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar De la Rúa
- Department of Zoology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jevrosima Stevanović
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nada Lakić
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zoran Kulišić
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zoran Stanimirović
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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30
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Reyes-Quintana M, Espinosa-Montaño LG, Prieto-Merlos D, Koleoglu G, Petukhova T, Correa-Benítez A, Guzman-Novoa E. Impact of Varroa destructor and deformed wing virus on emergence, cellular immunity, wing integrity and survivorship of Africanized honey bees in Mexico. J Invertebr Pathol 2019; 164:43-48. [PMID: 31034843 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2019.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor is the primary health problem of honey bees (Apis mellifera) worldwide. Africanized honey bees in Brazil have demonstrated tolerance to the mite, but there is controversy about the degree of mite tolerance of Africanized bees in other countries. This study was conducted to quantify the effect of V. destructor parasitism on emergence, hemocyte concentration, wing integrity and longevity of Africanized honey bees in Mexico. Africanized bee brood were artificially infested with V. destructor mites and held in an incubator until emergence as adults and compared to non-infested controls. Deformed wing virus (DWV) presence was determined in the mites used to infest the bees. After emergence, the bees were maintained in an incubator to determine survivorship. The percentage of worker bees that emerged from parasitized cells (69%) was significantly lower than that of bees emerged from non-infested cells (96%). Newly-emerged parasitized bees had a significantly lower concentration of hemocytes in the hemolymph than non-parasitized bees. Additionally, the proportion of bees with deformed wings that emerged from V. destructor-parasitized cells was significantly higher (54%) than that of the control group (0%). The mean survival time of bees that emerged from infested and non-infested cells was 8.5 ± 0.3 and 14.4 ± 0.4 days, respectively, and the difference was significant. We conclude that V. destructor parasitism and DWV infections kill, cause deformities and inhibit cellular immunity in developing Africanized honey bees, and significantly reduce the lifespan of adult bees in Mexico. These results suggest that the tolerance of Africanized bees to V. destructor is related to adult bee mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Reyes-Quintana
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | | | - Daniel Prieto-Merlos
- Departamento de Medicina y Zootecnia en Abejas, FMVZ, UNAM, Cd. Univ., Mexico 04510, Mexico
| | - Gun Koleoglu
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Tatiana Petukhova
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Adriana Correa-Benítez
- Departamento de Medicina y Zootecnia en Abejas, FMVZ, UNAM, Cd. Univ., Mexico 04510, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Guzman-Novoa
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada.
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Beaurepaire AL, Ellis JD, Krieger KJ, Moritz RFA. Association of Varroa destructor females in multiply infested cells of the honeybee Apis mellifera. INSECT SCIENCE 2019; 26:128-134. [PMID: 28834265 DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The genetic diversity of Varroa destructor (Anderson & Trueman) is limited outside its natural range due to population bottlenecks and its propensity to inbreed. In light of the arms race between V. destructor and its honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) host, any mechanism enhancing population admixture of the mite may be favored. One way that admixture can occur is when two genetically dissimilar mites coinvade a brood cell, with the progeny of the foundresses admixing. We determined the relatedness of 393 pairs of V. destructor foundresses, each pair collected from a single bee brood cell (n = five colonies). We used six microsatellites to identify the genotypes of mites coinvading a cell and calculated the frequency of pairs with different or the same genotypes. We found no deviation from random coinvasion, but the frequency of cells infested by mites with different genotypes was high. This rate of recombination, coupled with a high transmission rate of mites, homogenized the allelic pool of mites within the apiary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis L Beaurepaire
- Institut für Biologie, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle a. d. Saale, Germany
- UR 406 Abeilles et Environnement, INRA, Centre de Recherche Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Avignon, France
| | - James D Ellis
- Entomology & Nematology Department, University Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | | | - Robin F A Moritz
- Institut für Biologie, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle a. d. Saale, Germany
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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32
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Utzeri VJ, Schiavo G, Ribani A, Bertolini F, Bovo S, Fontanesi L. A next generation sequencing approach for targeted Varroa destructor (Acari: Varroidae) mitochondrial DNA analysis based on honey derived environmental DNA. J Invertebr Pathol 2019; 161:47-53. [PMID: 30707918 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2019.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Honey contains DNA from many different organisms that are part of hive micro-environmental niches and honey bee pathospheres. In this study, we recovered and sequenced mite mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from honey from different locations around the world (Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America). DNA extracted from 17 honey samples was amplified with eight primer pairs targeting three mite mtDNA genes, obtaining 88 amplicons that were sequenced with an Ion Torrent sequencing platform. A bioinformatic pipeline compared produced reads with Varroa spp. mtDNA sequence entries available in GenBank and assigned them to different mitotypes. In all honey samples, the highest percentage of reads was attributed to the K1 lineage, including a few variants derived from it, in addition to J1 reads observed in the two South American samples and C1-1 reads obtained from the Chinese honey. This study opens new possibilities to analyse mite lineages and variants and monitor their geographical and temporal distribution, simplifying surveillance against this damaging honey bee parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Joe Utzeri
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin 46, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Schiavo
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin 46, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Anisa Ribani
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin 46, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Bertolini
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin 46, 40127 Bologna, Italy; National Institute of Aquatic Resources, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Samuele Bovo
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin 46, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Fontanesi
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, University of Bologna, Viale Fanin 46, 40127 Bologna, Italy.
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33
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Farjamfar M, Saboori A, González-Cabrera J, Hernández Rodríguez CS. Genetic variability and pyrethroid susceptibility of the parasitic honey bee mite Varroa destructor (Acari: Varroidae) in Iran. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2018; 76:139-148. [PMID: 30238306 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-018-0296-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The ectoparasitic honey bee mite Varroa destructor Anderson & Trueman (Acari: Varroidae) is one of the major concerns for worldwide beekeeping. The use of synthetic pyrethroids for controlling the mite was among the most popular treatments until resistance evolved in the mid 1990's. In Iran, beekeepers are dealing with the parasite and they also used pyrethroids for controlling the mite for a long time. After the evolution of resistance to pyrethroids, they based mite control mostly on treatments with amitraz, organic acids and several management practices. Here we conducted a comprehensive characterization of V. destructor populations parasitizing Apis mellifera in Iran. We determined the genetic variability of mites collected from 28 localities distributed throughout the country. The haplotype of V. destructor was determined by PCR-RFLP, analyzing a fragment of the mitochondrial cox1 gene. It was found that only the Korean haplotype was present in samples from all localities. DNA fragments from cox1, atp6, cox3 and cytb mitochondrial genes were sequenced and the results showed that all samples were identical to the K1-1 or the K1-2 V. destructor haplotypes. Moreover, as it has been reported that resistance to pyrethroids in V. destructor is associated with mutations at position 925 of the voltage-gated sodium channel, a TaqMan®-based allelic discrimination assay was conducted to genotype the mites collected. The results showed that all the mites tested were homozygous for the wild-type allele and, therefore, susceptible to treatment with pyrethroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Farjamfar
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
- ERI BIOTECMED, Department of Genetics, Universitat de València, Dr. Moliner 50, 46100, Burjassot, Spain
| | - Alireza Saboori
- Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Joel González-Cabrera
- ERI BIOTECMED, Department of Genetics, Universitat de València, Dr. Moliner 50, 46100, Burjassot, Spain.
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34
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Evans JD, Cook SC. Genetics and physiology of Varroa mites. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2018; 26:130-135. [PMID: 29764652 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is the primary biological threat to domesticated honey bee colonies in much of the world, impacting host fitness both directly and by transmitting RNA viruses. Genomic, proteomic, and functional-genetic resources provide a framework for Varroa biology. When coupled with physiological analyses of development, host finding, and reproduction, these resources reveal general traits of arthropods and offer new strategies for mite control. Efforts to develop novel controls are focused on efficacy, efficient delivery, and the avoidance of both host impacts and the swift evolution of resistance by mites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay D Evans
- USDA-ARS Bee Research Lab, BARC-E Bldg. 306 Center Road, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.
| | - Steven C Cook
- USDA-ARS Bee Research Lab, BARC-E Bldg. 306 Center Road, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
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35
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Abstract
Parasite dispersal theory draws heavily upon epidemiological SIR models in which host status (susceptible (S), infected (I), or recovered (R)) is used to study parasite dispersal evolution. In contrast to these extrinsically host-centric drivers, in this study we focus on an intrinsic driver, the parasite's reproductive value (predicted future offspring) as a regulator of the extent to which the individual will engage in risky dispersal behaviour. As a model system we use the honeybee Apis mellifera and its ectoparasite, the mite Varroa destructor. Mite reproduction happens exclusively inside cells of bee brood, and newly emerged fecund mites may parasitize either a homocolonial brood cell (low risk dispersal) or emigrate to a new bee colony via phoretic attachment to mature forager bees (high risk dispersal). In an empirical bioassay, prepartum mites (high reproductive value) and postpartum mites (low reproductive value) were offered a choice of newly emerged homocolonial worker bees (low risk), homocolonial pollen forager bees (high risk), or heterocolonial pollen foragers (high risk). A preference for newly emerged bees was earlier and more strongly sustained among prepartum mites. This suggests comparatively greater dispersal risk tolerance among postpartum mites with lower reproductive value. A dangerous bid for dispersal may be adaptive if the individual has already successfully reproduced and the rewards for successful dispersal are sufficiently large.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxcy P Nolan
- Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, U.S.A
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Owen R. Role of Human Action in the Spread of Honey Bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) Pathogens. JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2017; 110:797-801. [PMID: 28383702 DOI: 10.1093/jee/tox075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The increased annual losses in European honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies in North America and some other countries is usually attributed to a range of factors including pathogens, poor nutrition, and insecticides. In this essay, I will argue that the global trade in honey bees and migratory beekeeping practices within countries has enabled pathogens to spread quickly. Beekeepers' management strategies have also contributed to the spread of pathogens as well as the development of resistance to miticides and antibiotics, and exacerbated by hobby beekeepers. The opportunities for arresting honey bee declines rest as strongly with individual beekeepers as they do with the dynamics of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Owen
- Department of Biosciences, University of Melbourne, Carlton, Vic. 3010, Australia Corresponding author, e-mail:
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Kelomey AE, Paraiso A, Sina H, Legout H, Garnery L, Baba-Moussa L. Genetic characterization of the honeybee ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor from Benin (West Africa) using mitochondrial and microsatellite markers. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2017; 72:61-67. [PMID: 28540471 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-017-0141-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is one of the scourges of global beekeeping. It was detected for the first time in Benin in 2011 on the honeybee Apis mellifera adansonii. The aim of this study was to identify the strain of Varroa sp. found and study its genetic diversity. In total 183 Varroa mites were sampled in 21 municipalities in Benin. The COI intergenic region of each mite mtDNA was amplified by PCR. The SacI restriction enzyme was used to determine the strains of Varroa sp. Only the Korean (K) haplotype, identical to the most prevalent strain in Africa, was detected. Analysis of the genetic diversity of Varroa mites with eight microsatellite loci (Simple Sequence Repeats) indicated a very low diversity of genotypes. Thus, V. destructor populations from Benin appear to make up a single group. Their clonal wealth ranges from 0.00 to 0.47. This study is an important step forward in the monitoring of the infestation of V. destructor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aude E Kelomey
- Laboratoire de Biologie et de Typage Moléculaire en Microbiologie, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques/Université d'Abomey-Calavi, 05 BP 1604, Cotonou, Benin
- Laboratoire de Protection des Végétaux, de Pathologie et Parasitologie des abeilles, Parakou, Benin
| | - Armand Paraiso
- Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Université de Parakou, Parakou, Benin
- Laboratoire de Protection des Végétaux, de Pathologie et Parasitologie des abeilles, Parakou, Benin
| | - Haziz Sina
- Laboratoire de Biologie et de Typage Moléculaire en Microbiologie, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques/Université d'Abomey-Calavi, 05 BP 1604, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Hélène Legout
- Laboratoire Evolution Génome Comportement Ecologie (EGCE) UMR 9191, Gif sur-Yvette, France
| | - Lionel Garnery
- Laboratoire Evolution Génome Comportement Ecologie (EGCE) UMR 9191, Gif sur-Yvette, France
| | - Lamine Baba-Moussa
- Laboratoire de Biologie et de Typage Moléculaire en Microbiologie, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques/Université d'Abomey-Calavi, 05 BP 1604, Cotonou, Benin.
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Brettell LE, Martin SJ. Oldest Varroa tolerant honey bee population provides insight into the origins of the global decline of honey bees. Sci Rep 2017; 7:45953. [PMID: 28393875 PMCID: PMC5385554 DOI: 10.1038/srep45953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The ecto-parasitic mite Varroa destructor has transformed the previously inconsequential Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) into the most important honey bee viral pathogen responsible for the death of millions of colonies worldwide. Naturally, DWV persists as a low level covert infection transmitted between nest-mates. It has long been speculated that Varroa via immunosuppression of the bees, activate a covert infection into an overt one. Here we show that despite Varroa feeding on a population of 20-40 colonies for over 30 years on the remote island of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil no such activation has occurred and DWV loads have remained at borderline levels of detection. This supports the alternative theory that for a new vector borne viral transmission cycle to start, an outbreak of an overt infection must first occur within the host. Therefore, we predict that this honey bee population is a ticking time-bomb, protected by its isolated position and small population size. This unique association between mite and bee persists due to the evolution of low Varroa reproduction rates. So the population is not adapted to tolerate Varroa and DWV, rather the viral quasispecies has simply not yet evolved the necessary mutations to produce a virulent variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. E. Brettell
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, The University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, UK
| | - S. J. Martin
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, The University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, UK
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Beaurepaire AL, Krieger KJ, Moritz RFA. Seasonal cycle of inbreeding and recombination of the parasitic mite Varroa destructor in honeybee colonies and its implications for the selection of acaricide resistance. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2017; 50:49-54. [PMID: 28216419 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2017.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 02/07/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is the most devastating parasite of the Western honeybee, Apis mellifera. In the light of the arm race opposing the host and its parasite, the population dynamics and genetic diversity of these organisms are key parameters. However, the life cycle of V. destructor is characterized by extreme inbreeding due to full sibling mating in the host brood cells. We here present an equation reflecting the evolution of inbreeding in such a clonal system, and compare our predictions with empirical data based on the analysis of seven microsatellite markers. This comparison revealed that the mites perform essentially incestuous mating in the beginning of the brood season. However, this pattern changes with the development of mite infestation. Despite the fact that the overall level of genetic diversity of the mites remained low through the season, multiple inbred lineages were identified in the mites we sampled in June. As a response to the decrease of brood availability and the increase of the parasite population in parallel in the colonies, these lineages recombined towards the end of the season as mites co-infest brood cells. Our results suggest that the ratio of the number of mite per brood cell in the colony determines the genetic structure of the populations of V. destructor. This intracolonial population dynamics has great relevance for the selection of acaricide resistance in V. destructor. If chemical treatments occur before the recombination phase, inbreeding will greatly enhance the fixation of resistance alleles at the colony level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis L Beaurepaire
- Institut für Biologie, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle a.d. Saale, Germany; UR 406 Abeilles et Environnement, INRA, Centre de Recherche Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Avignon, France.
| | | | - Robin F A Moritz
- Institut für Biologie, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle a.d. Saale, Germany; Dept Zoology, Entomology University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Andino GK, Gribskov M, Anderson DL, Evans JD, Hunt GJ. Differential gene expression in Varroa jacobsoni mites following a host shift to European honey bees (Apis mellifera). BMC Genomics 2016; 17:926. [PMID: 27852222 PMCID: PMC5112721 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-016-3130-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Varroa mites are widely considered the biggest honey bee health problem worldwide. Until recently, Varroa jacobsoni has been found to live and reproduce only in Asian honey bee (Apis cerana) colonies, while V. destructor successfully reproduces in both A. cerana and A. mellifera colonies. However, we have identified an island population of V. jacobsoni that is highly destructive to A. mellifera, the primary species used for pollination and honey production. The ability of these populations of mites to cross the host species boundary potentially represents an enormous threat to apiculture, and is presumably due to genetic variation that exists among populations of V. jacobsoni that influences gene expression and reproductive status. In this work, we investigate differences in gene expression between populations of V. jacobsoni reproducing on A. cerana and those either reproducing or not capable of reproducing on A. mellifera, in order to gain insight into differences that allow V. jacobsoni to overcome its normal species tropism. Results We sequenced and assembled a de novo transcriptome of V. jacobsoni. We also performed a differential gene expression analysis contrasting biological replicates of V. jacobsoni populations that differ in their ability to reproduce on A. mellifera. Using the edgeR, EBSeq and DESeq R packages for differential gene expression analysis, we found 287 differentially expressed genes (FDR ≤ 0.05), of which 91% were up regulated in mites reproducing on A. mellifera. In addition, mites found reproducing on A. mellifera showed substantially more variation in expression among replicates. We searched for orthologous genes in public databases and were able to associate 100 of these 287 differentially expressed genes with a functional description. Conclusions There is differential gene expression between the two mite groups, with more variation in gene expression among mites that were able to reproduce on A. mellifera. A small set of genes showed reduced expression in mites on the A. mellifera host, including putative transcription factors and digestive tract developmental genes. The vast majority of differentially expressed genes were up-regulated in this host. This gene set showed enrichment for genes associated with mitochondrial respiratory function and apoptosis, suggesting that mites on this host may be experiencing higher stress, and may be less optimally adapted to parasitize it. Some genes involved in reproduction and oogenesis were also overexpressed, which should be further studied in regards to this host shift. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-016-3130-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladys K Andino
- Information Technology at Purdue, Research Computing, Purdue University, West Lafayette, 47907-2114, IN, USA.
| | - Michael Gribskov
- Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, 47907-2054, IN, USA
| | - Denis L Anderson
- Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, Kuwaitat Research Station, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jay D Evans
- Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center - East, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, 20705-0000, USA
| | - Greg J Hunt
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, 47907-2089, IN, USA
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Gajić B, Stevanović J, Radulović Ž, Kulišić Z, Vejnović B, Glavinić U, Stanimirović Z. Haplotype identification and detection of mitochondrial DNA heteroplasmy in Varroa destructor mites using ARMS and PCR-RFLP methods. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2016; 70:287-297. [PMID: 27631761 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-016-0086-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS) and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods were used for identification of recently described Serbia 1 (S1) and Peshter 1 (P1) mitochondrial haplotypes of Varroa destructor. Based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within cytochrome oxidase 1 (cox1) and cytochrome b (cytb) gene sequences, a total of 64 adult V. destructor females were analyzed from locations where the S1 and P1 haplotypes had been detected previously. Results of haplotype identification obtained by ARMS and PCR-RFLP methods were completely consistent with the sequencing data. Furthermore, in some analyzed samples the occurrence of site heteroplasmy at haplotype-defining sites was detected, as it was confirmed by double peaks in the sequence chromatograms. Neither mites with simultaneous nucleotide variability, nor those with combined SNP and heteroplasmy in cox1 and cytb were found. Given that this is the first occurrence of site heteroplasmy in V. destructor, the origin of this phenomenon and possible specific traits of heteroplasmic mites have yet to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bojan Gajić
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bul. oslobodjenja 18, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia.
| | - Jevrosima Stevanović
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bul. oslobodjenja 18, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Željko Radulović
- Laboratory for Medical Entomology, Department for Parasitology, Center of Exellence for Toxoplasmosis and Medical Entomology, Institute for Medical Research, University of Belgrade, Dr. Subotića 4, POB 102, Belgrade, 11129, Serbia
| | - Zoran Kulišić
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bul. oslobodjenja 18, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Branislav Vejnović
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bul. oslobodjenja 18, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Uroš Glavinić
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bul. oslobodjenja 18, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
| | - Zoran Stanimirović
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Bul. oslobodjenja 18, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
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Dynes TL, De Roode JC, Lyons JI, Berry JA, Delaplane KS, Brosi BJ. Fine scale population genetic structure of Varroa destructor, an ectoparasitic mite of the honey bee ( Apis mellifera). APIDOLOGIE 2016; 2016:1-9. [PMID: 27812229 PMCID: PMC5089174 DOI: 10.1007/s13592-016-0453-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor is an obligate ectoparasitic mite and the most important biotic threat currently facing honey bees (Apis mellifera). We used neutral microsatellites to analyze previously unreported fine scale population structure of V. destructor, a species characterized by extreme lack of genetic diversity owing to multiple bottleneck events, haplodiploidy, and primarily brother-sister matings. Our results surprisingly indicate that detectable hierarchical genetic variation exists between apiaries, between colonies within an apiary, and even within colonies. This finding of within-colony parasite diversity provides empirical evidence that the spread of V. destructor is not accomplished solely by vertical transmission but that horizontal transmission (natural or human-mediated) must occur regularly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis L Dynes
- Population Biology, Ecology, and Evolution, Emory University, 400 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Jacobus C De Roode
- Population Biology, Ecology, and Evolution, Emory University, 400 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA 30322; Dept of Biology, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | - Justine I Lyons
- Population Biology, Ecology, and Evolution, Emory University, 400 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA 30322; Dept of Biology, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30322
| | | | | | - Berry J Brosi
- Population Biology, Ecology, and Evolution, Emory University, 400 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA 30322; Dept of Environmental Science, Emory University, 400 Dowman Dr, Atlanta, GA 30322
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Anguiano-Baez R, Guzman-Novoa E, Md Hamiduzzaman M, Espinosa-Montaño LG, Correa-Benítez A. Varroa destructor (Mesostigmata: Varroidae) Parasitism and Climate Differentially Influence the Prevalence, Levels, and Overt Infections of Deformed Wing Virus in Honey Bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2016; 16:iew029. [PMID: 27252482 PMCID: PMC4887826 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iew029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence and loads of deformed wing virus (DWV) between honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) colonies from a tropical and a temperate environment were compared. The interaction between these environments and the mite Varroa destructor in relation to DWV prevalence, levels, and overt infections, was also analyzed. V. destructor rates were determined, and samples of mites, adult bees, brood parasitized with varroa mites and brood not infested by mites were analyzed. DWV was detected in 100% of the mites and its prevalence and loads in honey bees were significantly higher in colonies from the temperate climate than in colonies from the tropical climate. Significant interactions were found between climate and type of sample, with the highest levels of DWV found in varroa-parasitized brood from temperate climate colonies. Additionally, overt infections were observed only in the temperate climate. Varroa parasitism and DWV loads in bees from colonies with overt infections were significantly higher than in bees from colonies with covert infections. These results suggest that interactions between climate, V. destructor, and possibly other factors, may play a significant role in the prevalence and levels of DWV in honey bee colonies, as well as in the development of overt infections. Several hypotheses are discussed to explain these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Anguiano-Baez
- Departamento de Producción Animal: Abejas, FMVZ, UNAM, Cd. Univ., Mexico DF 04510, Mexico (; ; )
| | - Ernesto Guzman-Novoa
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Mollah Md Hamiduzzaman
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Laura G Espinosa-Montaño
- Departamento de Producción Animal: Abejas, FMVZ, UNAM, Cd. Univ., Mexico DF 04510, Mexico (; ; )
| | - Adriana Correa-Benítez
- Departamento de Producción Animal: Abejas, FMVZ, UNAM, Cd. Univ., Mexico DF 04510, Mexico (; ; )
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Elbeaino T, Daher-Hjaij N, Ismaeil F, Mando J, Khaled BS, Kubaa RA. Occurrence of Deformed wing virus, Chronic bee paralysis virus and mtDNA variants in haplotype K of Varroa destructor mites in Syrian apiaries. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2016; 69:11-19. [PMID: 26914360 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-016-0021-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A small-scale survey was conducted on 64 beehives located in four governorates of Syria in order to assess for the first time the presence of honeybee-infecting viruses and of Varroa destructor mites in the country. RT-PCR assays conducted on 192 honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) using virus-specific primers showed that Deformed wing virus (DWV) was present in 49 (25.5%) of the tested samples and Chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV) in 2 (1.04%), whereas Acute bee paralysis virus, Sacbrood virus, Black queen cell virus and Kashmir bee virus were absent. Nucleotide sequences of PCR amplicons obtained from DWV and CBPV genomes shared 95-97 and 100% identity with isolates reported in the GenBank, respectively. The phylogenetic tree grouped the Syrian DWV isolates in one cluster, distinct from all those of different origins reported in the database. Furthermore, 19 adult V. destructor females were genetically analyzed by amplifying and sequencing four fragments in cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (cox1), ATP synthase 6 (atp6), cox3 and cytochrome b (cytb) mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genes. Sequences of concatenated V. destructor mtDNA genes (2696 bp) from Syria were similar to the Korean (K) haplotype and were found recurrently in all governorates. In addition, two genetic lineages of haplotype K with slight variations (0.2-0.3%) were present only in Tartous and Al-Qunaitra governorates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toufic Elbeaino
- CIHEAM - Istituto Agronomico Mediterraneo, Via Ceglie 9, 70010, Valenzano, BA, Italy.
| | - Nouraldin Daher-Hjaij
- General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research (GCSAR), Administration of Plant Protection Research, P. O. Box: 12573, Damascus, Syria
| | - Faiz Ismaeil
- General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research (GCSAR), Administration of Plant Protection Research, P. O. Box: 12573, Damascus, Syria
| | - Jamal Mando
- General Commission for Scientific Agricultural Research (GCSAR), Administration of Plant Protection Research, P. O. Box: 12573, Damascus, Syria
| | | | - Raied Abou Kubaa
- CIHEAM - Istituto Agronomico Mediterraneo, Via Ceglie 9, 70010, Valenzano, BA, Italy
- Ministry of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform, Department of Plant Protection, Damascus, Syria
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Impact of the Phoretic Phase on Reproduction and Damage Caused by Varroa destructor (Anderson and Trueman) to Its Host, the European Honey Bee (Apis mellifera L.). PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153482. [PMID: 27096154 PMCID: PMC4838260 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Varroa destructor is a parasitic mite of the honeybee that causes thousands of colony losses worldwide. The parasite cycle is composed of a phoretic and a reproductive phase. During the former, mites stay on adult bees, mostly on nurses, to feed on hemolymph. During the latter, the parasites enter brood cells and reproduce. We investigated if the type of bees on which Varroa stays during the phoretic phase and if the duration of this stay influenced the reproductive success of the parasite and the damage caused to bees. For that purpose, we used an in vitro rearing method developed in our laboratory to assess egg laying rate and the presence and number of fully molted daughters. The expression level of two Varroa vitellogenin genes (VdVg1 and VdVg2), known to vary throughout reproduction, was also quantified. Results showed that the status of the bees or time spent during the phoretic phase impacts neither reproduction parameters nor the Varroa vitellogenin genes levels of expression. However, we correlated these parameters to the gene expression and demonstrated that daughters expressed the vitellogenin genes at lower levels than their mother. Regarding the damage to bees, the data indicated that a longer stay on adult bees during the phoretic phase resulted in more frequent physical deformity in newborn bees. We showed that those mites carry more viral loads of the Deformed Wing Virus and hence trigger more frequently overt infections. This study provides new perspectives towards a better understanding of the Varroa-honeybee interactions.
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Chemurot M, Akol AM, Masembe C, de Smet L, Descamps T, de Graaf DC. Factors influencing the prevalence and infestation levels of Varroa destructor in honeybee colonies in two highland agro-ecological zones of Uganda. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2016; 68:497-508. [PMID: 26801158 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-016-0013-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Varroa mites are ecto-parasites of honeybees and are a threat to the beekeeping industry. We identified the haplotype of Varroa mites and evaluated potential factors that influence their prevalence and infestation levels in the eastern and western highland agro-ecological zones of Uganda. This was done by collecting samples of adult worker bees between December 2014 and September 2015 in two sampling moments. Samples of bees were screened for Varroa using the ethanol wash method and the mites were identified by molecular techniques. All DNA sequences obtained from sampled mite populations in the two zones were 100 % identical to the Korean Haplotype (AF106899). Mean mite prevalence in the apiaries was 40 and 53 % for the western and eastern zones, respectively, during the first sampling. Over the second sampling, mean mite prevalence increased considerably in the western (59 %) but not in the eastern (51 %) zone. Factors that were associated with Varroa mite infestation levels include altitude, nature of apiary slope and apiary management practices during the first sampling. Our results further showed that Varroa mites were spreading from lower to higher elevations. Feral colonies were also infested with Varroa mites at infestation levels not significantly different from those in managed colonies. Colony productivity and strength were not correlated to mite infestation levels. We recommend a long-term Varroa mite monitoring strategy in areas of varying landscape and land use factors for a clear understanding of possible changes in mite infestation levels among African honeybees for informed decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moses Chemurot
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Anne M Akol
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Masembe
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lina de Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tine Descamps
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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47
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Graystock P, Blane EJ, McFrederick QS, Goulson D, Hughes WO. Do managed bees drive parasite spread and emergence in wild bees? Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2016; 5:64-75. [PMID: 28560161 PMCID: PMC5439461 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 09/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Bees have been managed and utilised for honey production for centuries and, more recently, pollination services. Since the mid 20th Century, the use and production of managed bees has intensified with hundreds of thousands of hives being moved across countries and around the globe on an annual basis. However, the introduction of unnaturally high densities of bees to areas could have adverse effects. Importation and deployment of managed honey bee and bumblebees may be responsible for parasite introductions or a change in the dynamics of native parasites that ultimately increases disease prevalence in wild bees. Here we review the domestication and deployment of managed bees and explain the evidence for the role of managed bees in causing adverse effects on the health of wild bees. Correlations with the use of managed bees and decreases in wild bee health from territories across the globe are discussed along with suggestions to mitigate further health reductions in wild bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Graystock
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92507, USA
| | - Edward J. Blane
- Natural England, Mail Hub Block B, Whittington Road, Worcester, WR5 2LQ, UK
| | | | - Dave Goulson
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK
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48
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Beaurepaire AL, Truong TA, Fajardo AC, Dinh TQ, Cervancia C, Moritz RFA. Host Specificity in the Honeybee Parasitic Mite, Varroa spp. in Apis mellifera and Apis cerana. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0135103. [PMID: 26248192 PMCID: PMC4527838 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0135103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor is a major global threat to the Western honeybee Apis mellifera. This mite was originally a parasite of A. cerana in Asia but managed to spill over into colonies of A. mellifera which had been introduced to this continent for honey production. To date, only two almost clonal types of V. destructor from Korea and Japan have been detected in A. mellifera colonies. However, since both A. mellifera and A. cerana colonies are kept in close proximity throughout Asia, not only new spill overs but also spill backs of highly virulent types may be possible, with unpredictable consequences for both honeybee species. We studied the dispersal and hybridisation potential of Varroa from sympatric colonies of the two hosts in Northern Vietnam and the Philippines using mitochondrial and microsatellite DNA markers. We found a very distinct mtDNA haplotype equally invading both A. mellifera and A. cerana in the Philippines. In contrast, we observed a complete reproductive isolation of various Vietnamese Varroa populations in A. mellifera and A. cerana colonies even if kept in the same apiaries. In light of this variance in host specificity, the adaptation of the mite to its hosts seems to have generated much more genetic diversity than previously recognised and the Varroa species complex may include substantial cryptic speciation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis L. Beaurepaire
- Institut für Biologie, Martin Luther Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Tuan A. Truong
- Bee Research and Development Centre, Dong Da Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Alejandro C. Fajardo
- UPLB Bee Program, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Los Baños, Philippines
| | - Tam Q. Dinh
- Bee Research and Development Centre, Dong Da Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Cleofas Cervancia
- UPLB Bee Program, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Los Baños, Philippines
| | - Robin F. A. Moritz
- Institut für Biologie, Martin Luther Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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49
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Roberts JMK, Anderson DL, Tay WT. Multiple host shifts by the emerging honeybee parasite, Varroa jacobsoni. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:2379-91. [PMID: 25846956 DOI: 10.1111/mec.13185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Revised: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Host shifts are a key mechanism of parasite evolution and responsible for the emergence of many economically important pathogens. Varroa destructor has been a major factor in global honeybee (Apis mellifera) declines since shifting hosts from the Asian honeybee (Apis cerana) > 50 years ago. Until recently, only two haplotypes of V. destructor (Korea and Japan) had successfully host shifted to A. mellifera. In 2008, the sister species V. jacobsoni was found for the first time parasitizing A. mellifera in Papua New Guinea (PNG). This recent host shift presents a serious threat to world apiculture but also provides the opportunity to examine host shifting in this system. We used 12 microsatellites to compare genetic variation of V. jacobsoni on A. mellifera in PNG with mites on A. cerana in both PNG and surrounding regions. We identified two distinct lineages of V. jacobsoni reproducing on A. mellifera in PNG. Our analysis indicated independent host shift events have occurred through small numbers of mites shifting from local A. cerana populations. Additional lineages were found in the neighbouring Papua and Solomon Islands that had partially host shifted to A. mellifera, that is producing immature offspring on drone brood only. These mites were likely in transition to full colonization of A. mellifera. Significant population structure between mites on the different hosts suggested host shifted V. jacobsoni populations may not still reproduce on A. cerana, although limited gene flow may exist. Our studies provide further insight into parasite host shift evolution and help characterize this new Varroa mite threat to A. mellifera worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M K Roberts
- CSIRO, Clunies Ross Street, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
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50
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Morrissey BJ, Helgason T, Poppinga L, Fünfhaus A, Genersch E, Budge GE. Biogeography of Paenibacillus larvae, the causative agent of American foulbrood, using a new multilocus sequence typing scheme. Environ Microbiol 2015; 17:1414-24. [PMID: 25244044 PMCID: PMC4405054 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.12625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
American foulbrood is the most destructive brood disease of honeybees (Apis mellifera) globally. The absence of a repeatable, universal typing scheme for the causative bacterium Paenibacillus larvae has restricted our understanding of disease epidemiology. We have created the first multilocus sequence typing scheme (MLST) for P. larvae, which largely confirms the previous enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based typing scheme's divisions while providing added resolution and improved repeatability. We have used the new scheme to determine the distribution and biogeography of 294 samples of P. larvae from across six continents. We found that of the two most epidemiologically important ERIC types, ERIC I was more diverse than ERIC II. Analysis of the fixation index (FST ) by distance suggested a significant relationship between genetic and geographic distance, suggesting that population structure exists in populations of P. larvae. Interestingly, this effect was only observed within the native range of the host and was absent in areas where international trade has moved honeybees and their disease. Correspondence analysis demonstrated similar sequence type (ST) distributions between native and non-native countries and that ERIC I and II STs mainly have differing distributions. The new typing scheme facilitates epidemiological study of this costly disease of a key pollinator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J Morrissey
- Biology Department, University of YorkPO Box 373, York, YO10 5YW, UK
- Food and Environment Research AgencySand Hutton, York, YO41 1LZ, UK
| | - Thorunn Helgason
- Biology Department, University of YorkPO Box 373, York, YO10 5YW, UK
| | - Lena Poppinga
- Institute for Bee ResearchFiedrich-Engels-Str. 32, Hohen Neuendorf, 16540, Germany
| | - Anne Fünfhaus
- Institute for Bee ResearchFiedrich-Engels-Str. 32, Hohen Neuendorf, 16540, Germany
| | - Elke Genersch
- Institute for Bee ResearchFiedrich-Engels-Str. 32, Hohen Neuendorf, 16540, Germany
- Institute of Microbiology and Epizootics, Freie Universität BerlinRobert-von-Ostertag-Str. 7–13, Berlin, 14163, Germany
| | - Giles E Budge
- Food and Environment Research AgencySand Hutton, York, YO41 1LZ, UK
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