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Gekière A, Breuer L, Dorio L, Evrard D, Vanderplanck M, Michez D. Bumble bees do not avoid field-realistic but innocuous concentrations of cadmium and copper. ECOTOXICOLOGY (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024:10.1007/s10646-024-02802-7. [PMID: 39261366 DOI: 10.1007/s10646-024-02802-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Bee populations are facing numerous stressors globally, including environmental pollution by trace metals and metalloids. Understanding whether bees can detect and avoid these pollutants in their food is pivotal, as avoidance abilities may mitigate their exposure to xenobiotics. While these pollutants are known to induce sublethal effects in bees, such as disrupting physiological mechanisms, their potential impacts on locomotive abilities, fat metabolism, and reproductive physiology remain poorly understood. In this study, utilising workers of the buff-tailed bumble bee and two prevalent trace metals, namely cadmium and copper, we aimed to address these knowledge gaps for field-realistic concentrations. Our findings reveal that workers did not reject field-realistic concentrations of cadmium and copper in sucrose solutions. Moreover, they did not reject lethal concentrations of cadmium, although they rejected lethal concentrations of copper. Additionally, we observed no significant effects of field-realistic concentrations of these metals on the walking and flying activities of workers, nor on their fat metabolism and reproductive physiology. Overall, our results suggest that bumble bees may not avoid cadmium and copper at environmental concentrations, but ingestion of these metals in natural settings may not adversely affect locomotive abilities, fat metabolism, or reproductive physiology. However, given the conservative nature of our study, we still recommend future research to employ higher concentrations over longer durations to mimic conditions in heavily polluted areas (i.e., mine surrounding). Furthermore, investigations should ascertain whether field-realistic concentrations of metals exert no impact on bee larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Gekière
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000, Mons, Belgium.
| | - Luna Breuer
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000, Mons, Belgium
| | - Luca Dorio
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000, Mons, Belgium
| | - Dimitri Evrard
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000, Mons, Belgium
| | - Maryse Vanderplanck
- CEFE, CNRS, University of Montpellier, EPHE, IRD, 1919 Route de Mende, 34293, Montpellier, France
| | - Denis Michez
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, 20 Place du Parc, 7000, Mons, Belgium
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2
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Dahake A, Persaud SG, Jones MN, Goyret J, Davidowitz G, Raguso RA. Dying of thirst: Osmoregulation by a hawkmoth pollinator in response to variability in ambient humidity and nectar availability. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 159:104700. [PMID: 39255897 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2024.104700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
Climate-induced shifts in flowering phenology can disrupt pollinator-floral resource synchrony, especially in desert ecosystems where rainfall dictates both. However, baseline metrics to gauge pollinator health in the wild amidst rapid climate change are lacking. Our laboratory-based study establishes a baseline for pollinator physiological state by exploring how osmotic conditions influence survivorship in a desert hawkmoth pollinator, Manduca sexta. We sampled hemolymph osmolality from over 1000 lab-grown moths at 20 %, 50 %, and 80 % ambient humidity levels. Starved moths maintained healthy osmolality of 350-400 mmol/kg for 1-3 days after eclosion regardless of ambient humidity, but it sharply rose to 550 mmol/kg after 4-5 days in low and moderate humidity, and after 5 days in high humidity. Starved moths in low humidity conditions perished within 5 days, while those in high humidity survived twice as long. Moths fed synthetic Datura wrightii nectar, synthetic Agave palmeri nectar, or water, maintained osmolality within a healthy range of 350-400mmol/kg. The same was true for moths fed authentic floral nectars from Datura and Agave plants, although moths consumed more synthetic than authentic nectars, possibly due to non-sugar constituents. Simulating a 4-day mismatch between pollinator emergence and nectar availability, a single nectar meal osmotically rescued moths under dry ambient conditions. Our findings highlight hemolymph osmolality as a rapid and accurate biomarker distinguishing dehydrated from hydrated states in insect pollinators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajinkya Dahake
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA.
| | - Steven G Persaud
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Marnesha N Jones
- Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Joaquín Goyret
- Department of Biology, University of Tennessee, Martin, TN 38237, USA
| | - Goggy Davidowitz
- Department of Entomology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Robert A Raguso
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
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3
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Kogan HV, Macleod SG, Rondeau NC, Raup-Collado J, Cordero VA, Rovnyak D, Marshalleck CA, Mallapan M, Flores ME, Snow JW. Transcriptional control of a metabolic switch regulating cellular methylation reactions is part of a common response to stress in divergent bee species. J Exp Biol 2024; 227:jeb246894. [PMID: 38736357 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.246894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Recent global declines in bee health have elevated the need for a more complete understanding of the cellular stress mechanisms employed by diverse bee species. We recently uncovered the biomarker lethal (2) essential for life [l(2)efl] genes as part of a shared transcriptional program in response to a number of cell stressors in the western honey bee (Apis mellifera). Here, we describe another shared stress-responsive gene, glycine N-methyltransferase (Gnmt), which is known as a key metabolic switch controlling cellular methylation reactions. We observed Gnmt induction by both abiotic and biotic stressors. We also found increased levels of the GNMT reaction product sarcosine in the midgut after stress, linking metabolic changes with the observed changes in gene regulation. Prior to this study, Gnmt upregulation had not been associated with cellular stress responses in other organisms. To determine whether this novel stress-responsive gene would behave similarly in other bee species, we first characterized the cellular response to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in lab-reared adults of the solitary alfalfa leafcutting bee (Megachile rotundata) and compared this with age-matched honey bees. The novel stress gene Gnmt was induced in addition to a number of canonical gene targets induced in both bee species upon unfolded protein response (UPR) activation, suggesting that stress-induced regulation of cellular methylation reactions is a common feature of bees. Therefore, this study suggests that the honey bee can serve as an important model for bee biology more broadly, although studies on diverse bee species will be required to fully understand global declines in bee populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen V Kogan
- Biology Department, Barnard College, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - David Rovnyak
- Department of Chemistry, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA 17837, USA
| | | | - Meghna Mallapan
- Biology Department, Barnard College, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | | | - Jonathan W Snow
- Biology Department, Barnard College, New York, NY 10027, USA
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4
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Nguyen PN, Samad-Zada F, Chau KD, Rehan SM. Microbiome and floral associations of a wild bee using biodiversity survey collections. Environ Microbiol 2024; 26:e16657. [PMID: 38817079 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
The health of bees can be assessed through their microbiome, which serves as a biomarker indicating the presence of both beneficial and harmful microorganisms within a bee community. This study presents the characterisation of the bacterial, fungal, and plant composition on the cuticle of adult bicoloured sweat bees (Agapostemon virescens). These bees were collected using various methods such as pan traps, blue vane traps and sweep netting across the northern extent of their habitat range. Non-destructive methods were employed to extract DNA from the whole pinned specimens of these wild bees. Metabarcoding of the 16S rRNA, ITS and rbcL regions was then performed. The study found that the method of collection influenced the detection of certain microbial and plant taxa. Among the collection methods, sweep net samples showed the lowest fungal alpha diversity. However, minor differences in bacterial or fungal beta diversity suggest that no single method is significantly superior to others. Therefore, a combination of techniques can cater to a broader spectrum of microbial detection. The study also revealed regional variations in bacterial, fungal and plant diversity. The core microbiome of A. virescens comprises two bacteria, three fungi and a plant association, all of which are commonly detected in other wild bees. These core microbes remained consistent across different collection methods and locations. Further extensive studies of wild bee microbiomes across various species and landscapes will help uncover crucial relationships between pollinator health and their environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuong N Nguyen
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Katherine D Chau
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sandra M Rehan
- Department of Biology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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5
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Parrella P, Elikan AB, Snow JW. Pathogen- and host-directed pharmacologic strategies for control of Vairimorpha (Nosema) spp. infection in honey bees. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2024:e13026. [PMID: 38572630 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.13026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Microsporidia are obligate intracellular parasites of the Fungal Kingdom that cause widespread infections in nature, with important effects on invertebrates involved in food production systems. The two microsporidian species Vairimorpha (Nosema) ceranae (and the less common Vairimorpha (Nosema) apis) can cause individual disease in honey bees and contribute to colony collapse. The efficacy, safety, and availability of fumagillin, the only drug currently approved to treat microsporidia infection in bees, is uncertain. In this review, we will discuss some of the most promising alternative strategies for the mitigation of Vairimorpha spp. with an emphasis on infection by V. ceranae, now the dominant species infecting bees. We will focus on pharmacologic interventions where the mechanism of action is known and examine both pathogen-directed and host-directed approaches. As limiting toxicity to host cells has been especially emphasized in treating bees that are already facing numerous stressors, strategies that disrupt pathogen-specific targets may be especially advantageous. Therefore, efforts to increase the knowledge and tools for facilitating the discovery of such targets and pharmacologic agents directed against them should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parker Parrella
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Jonathan W Snow
- Department of Biology, Barnard College, New York, New York, USA
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6
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Knoll S, Cappai MG. Foraging Activity of Honey Bees (Apis mellifera L., 1758) and Exposure to Cadmium: a Review. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024:10.1007/s12011-024-04118-3. [PMID: 38443599 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-024-04118-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Honey bees are commonly exposed to a broad spectrum of xenobiotics, including heavy metals. Heavy metal toxicity is of concern in the context of global pollinator declines, especially since honey bees seem to be particularly susceptible to xenobiotics in general. Here we summarize current knowledge on the interplay between cadmium, one of the most toxic and mobile elements in the environment, and honey bees, the primary managed pollinator species worldwide. Overall, cadmium pollution has been shown to be ubiquitous, affecting industrial, urban and rural areas alike. Uptake of this heavy metal by plants serves as the primary route of exposure for bees (through pollen and nectar). Reported cadmium toxicity consists of lethal and sublethal effects (reduced development and growth) in both adult and larval stages, as well as various molecular responses related to detoxification and cellular antioxidant defence systems. Other effects of cadmium in honey bees include the disruption of synaptic signalling, calcium metabolism and muscle function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephane Knoll
- Institute of Animal Productions of the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Cappai
- Institute of Animal Productions of the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
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7
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Caesar L, Rice DW, McAfee A, Underwood R, Ganote C, Tarpy DR, Foster LJ, Newton ILG. Metagenomic analysis of the honey bee queen microbiome reveals low bacterial diversity and Caudoviricetes phages. mSystems 2024; 9:e0118223. [PMID: 38259099 PMCID: PMC10878037 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01182-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In eusocial insects, the health of the queens-the colony founders and sole reproductive females-is a primary determinant for colony success. Queen failure in the honey bee Apis mellifera, for example, is a major concern of beekeepers who annually suffer colony losses, necessitating a greater knowledge of queen health. Several studies on the microbiome of honey bees have characterized its diversity and shown its importance for the health of worker bees, the female non-reproductive caste. However, the microbiome of workers differs from that of queens, which, in comparison, is still poorly studied. Thus, direct investigations of the queen microbiome are required to understand colony-level microbiome assembly, functional roles, and evolution. Here, we used metagenomics to comprehensively characterize the honey bee queen microbiome. Comparing samples from different geographic locations and breeder sources, we show that the microbiome of queens is mostly shaped by the environment experienced since early life and is predicted to play roles in the breakdown of the diet and protection from pathogens and xenobiotics. We also reveal that the microbiome of queens comprises only four candidate core bacterial species, Apilactobacillus kunkeei, Lactobacillus apis, Bombella apis, and Commensalibacter sp. Interestingly, in addition to bacteria, we show that bacteriophages infect the queen microbiome, for which Lactobacillaceae are predicted to be the main reservoirs. Together, our results provide the basis to understand the honey bee colony microbiome assemblage, can guide improvements in queen-rearing processes, and highlight the importance of considering bacteriophages for queen microbiome health and microbiome homeostasis in eusocial insects.IMPORTANCEThe queen caste plays a central role in colony success in eusocial insects, as queens lay eggs and regulate colony behavior and development. Queen failure can cause colonies to collapse, which is one of the major concerns of beekeepers. Thus, understanding the biology behind the queen's health is a pressing issue. Previous studies have shown that the bee microbiome plays an important role in worker bee health, but little is known about the queen microbiome and its function in vivo. Here, we characterized the queen microbiome, identifying for the first time the present species and their putative functions. We show that the queen microbiome has predicted nutritional and protective roles in queen association and comprises only four consistently present bacterial species. Additionally, we bring to attention the spread of phages in the queen microbiome, which increased in abundance in failing queens and may impact the fate of the colony.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lílian Caesar
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Danny W. Rice
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - Alison McAfee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robyn Underwood
- Department of Entomology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Carrie Ganote
- Luddy School of Informatics, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - David R. Tarpy
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
| | - Leonard J. Foster
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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8
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Jin G, Hrithik MTH, Mandal E, Kil EJ, Jung C, Kim Y. Phospholipase A2 activity is required for immune defense of European (Apis mellifera) and Asian (Apis cerana) honeybees against American foulbrood pathogen, Paenibacillus larvae. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0290929. [PMID: 38319944 PMCID: PMC10846722 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Honeybees require an efficient immune system to defend against microbial pathogens. The American foulbrood pathogen, Paenibacillus larvae, is lethal to honeybees and one of the main causes of colony collapse. This study investigated the immune responses of Apis mellifera and Apis cerana honeybees against the bacterial pathogen P. larvae. Both species of honeybee larvae exhibited significant mortality even at 102 103 cfu/mL of P. larvae by diet-feeding, although A. mellifera appeared to be more tolerant to the bacterial pathogen than A. cerana. Upon bacterial infection, the two honeybee species expressed both cellular and humoral immune responses. Hemocytes of both species exhibited characteristic spreading behaviors, accompanied by cytoskeletal extension along with F-actin growth, and formed nodules. Larvae of both species also expressed an antimicrobial peptide called apolipophorin III (ApoLpIII) in response to bacterial infection. However, these immune responses were significantly suppressed by a specific inhibitor to phospholipase A2 (PLA2). Each honeybee genome encodes four PLA2 genes (PLA2A ~ PLA2D), representing four orthologous combinations between the two species. In response to P. larvae infection, both species significantly up-regulated PLA2 enzyme activities and the expression of all four PLA2 genes. To determine the roles of the four PLA2s in the immune responses, RNA interference (RNAi) was performed by injecting gene-specific double stranded RNAs (dsRNAs). All four RNAi treatments significantly suppressed the immune responses, and specific inhibition of the two secretory PLA2s (PLA2A and PLA2B) potently suppressed nodule formation and ApoLpIII expression. These results demonstrate the cellular and humoral immune responses of A. mellifera and A. cerana against P. larvae. This study suggests that eicosanoids play a crucial role in mediating common immune responses in two closely related honeybees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gahyeon Jin
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
| | | | - Eeshita Mandal
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
| | - Eui-Joon Kil
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
| | - Chuleui Jung
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
| | - Yonggyun Kim
- Department of Plant Medicals, Andong National University, Andong, Korea
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Na SJ, Kim YK, Park JM. Nectar Characteristics and Honey Production Potential of Five Rapeseed Cultivars and Two Wildflower Species in South Korea. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:419. [PMID: 38337952 PMCID: PMC10856812 DOI: 10.3390/plants13030419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The growing beekeeping industry in South Korea has led to the establishment of new honey plant complexes. However, studies on honey production from each species are limited. This study aimed to assess the honey production potential of various Brassica napus cultivars and two wildflower species. The nectar characteristics of B. napus varied significantly among the cultivars. Absolute sugar concentrations differed among the cultivars, but sugar composition ratios were similar. In contrast, the amino acid content remained relatively uniform regarding percentage values, irrespective of the absolute concentrations. Estimations of honey potential production per hectare (kg/ha) resulted in the following ranking among cultivars: 'JM7003' (107.1) > 'YS' (73.0) > 'JM7001' (63.7) > 'TL' (52.7) > 'TM' (42.4). The nectar volume of Pseudolysimachion rotundum var. subintegrum and Leonurus japonicus increased during the flowering stage. P. rotundum var. subintegrum was sucrose-rich and L. japonicus was sucrose-dominant. Both species predominantly contained phenylalanine, P. rotundum var. subintegrum had glutamine as the second most abundant amino acid, and L. japonicus had tyrosine. The honey production potential was 152.4 kg/ha for P. rotundum var. subintegrum and 151.3 kg/ha for L. japonicus. These findings provide a basis for identifying food resources for pollinators and selecting plant species to establish honey plant complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Joon Na
- Department of Forest Bioresources, National Institute of Forest Science, Suwon 16631, Republic of Korea; (Y.-K.K.); (J.-M.P.)
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10
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Straub F, Birkenbach M, Leonhardt SD, Ruedenauer FA, Kuppler J, Wilfert L, Ayasse M. Land-use-associated stressors interact to reduce bumblebee health at the individual and colony level. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20231322. [PMID: 37817596 PMCID: PMC10565366 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.1322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
In agricultural landscapes, bees face a variety of stressors, including insecticides and poor-quality food. Although both stressors individually have been shown to affect bumblebee health negatively, few studies have focused on stressor interactions, a scenario expected in intensively used agricultural landscapes. Using the bumblebee Bombus terrestris, a key pollinator in agricultural landscapes, we conducted a fully factorial laboratory experiment starting at nest initiation. We assessed the effects of food quality and insecticides, alone and in interaction, on health traits at various levels, some of which have been rarely studied. Pollen with a diluted nutrient content (low quality) reduced ovary size and delayed colony development. Wing asymmetry, indicating developmental stress, was increased during insecticide exposure and interactions with poor food, whereas both stressors reduced body size. Both stressors and their interaction changed the workers' chemical profile and reduced worker interactions and the immune response. Our findings suggest that insecticides combined with nutritional stress reduce bumblebee health at the individual and colony levels, thus possibly affecting colony performance, such as development and reproduction, and the stability of plant-pollinator networks. The synergistic effects highlight the need of combining stressors in risk assessments and when studying the complex effects of anthropogenic stressors on health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian Straub
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus Birkenbach
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Sara D. Leonhardt
- Plant-Insect-Interactions, Research Department Life Science Systems, Technical University of Munich, Hans-Carl-von-Carlowitz-Platz 2, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Fabian A. Ruedenauer
- Plant-Insect-Interactions, Research Department Life Science Systems, Technical University of Munich, Hans-Carl-von-Carlowitz-Platz 2, 85354 Freising, Germany
| | - Jonas Kuppler
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Lena Wilfert
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Manfred Ayasse
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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11
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Meikle WG, Corby-Harris V, Ricigliano V, Snyder L, Weiss M. Cold storage as part of a Varroa management strategy: effects on honey bee colony performance, mite levels and stress biomarkers. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11842. [PMID: 37481663 PMCID: PMC10363162 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39095-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Placing honey bee colonies in cold storage has been proposed as a way to induce a pause in brood production as part of a Varroa mite treatment plan. Here, we exposed colonies to combinations of with or without an October cold storage period and with or without a subsequent miticide application. We then measured the effects of those treatments on colony-level variables (i.e. colony size, Varroa infestation level, survivorship and hive weight and temperature) and pooled individual-level variables that are associated with nutritional and stress responses. Colonies were assessed before and after cold storage, and again post winter, for a total duration of about 5 months, and the experiment was repeated. Brood levels were significantly lower after cold storage, and hive temperatures indicated that most or all brood had emerged after about two weeks in cold storage. However, Varroa levels at the end of the experiments in February were not significantly different among treatment groups. Colonies kept outside (not subjected to cold storage) and treated with a miticide had higher survivorship on average than any other treatment group, but no other group comparisons were significant, and long-term impact of cold storage on adult bee populations and on colony thermoregulation was low. The bee forage environment was also very different between the 2 years of the study, as rainfall and bee forage availability were much higher the second year. Colonies were over 2.5 times larger on average the second year compared to the first, both in terms of adult bee mass and brood area, and expression levels of nutrition and stress response genes were also significantly higher the second year. The results indicate that limited cold storage would likely have little long-term impact on most colony and individual measures of health, but for such a strategy to succeed levels of stressors, such as Varroa, may also need to be low.
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Affiliation(s)
- William G Meikle
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, USDA-ARS, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA.
| | | | - Vincent Ricigliano
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, USDA-ARS, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
- Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics, and Physiology Research, USDA-ARS, Baton Rouge, LA, 70820, USA
| | - Lucy Snyder
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, USDA-ARS, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
| | - Milagra Weiss
- Carl Hayden Bee Research Center, USDA-ARS, Tucson, AZ, 85719, USA
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12
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Russo L, Ruedenauer F, Gronert A, Van de Vreken I, Vanderplanck M, Michez D, Klein A, Leonhardt S, Stout JC. Fertilizer and herbicide alter nectar and pollen quality with consequences for pollinator floral choices. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15452. [PMID: 37334137 PMCID: PMC10269573 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pollinating insects provide economically and ecologically valuable services, but are threatened by a variety of anthropogenic changes. The availability and quality of floral resources may be affected by anthropogenic land use. For example, flower-visiting insects in agroecosystems rely on weeds on field edges for foraging resources, but these weeds are often exposed to agrochemicals that may compromise the quality of their floral resources. Methods We conducted complementary field and greenhouse experiments to evaluate the: (1) effect of low concentrations of agrochemical exposure on nectar and pollen quality and (2) relationship between floral resource quality and insect visitation. We applied the same agrochemcial treatments (low concentrations of fertilizer, low concentrations of herbicide, a combination of both, and a control of just water) to seven plant species in the field and greenhouse. We collected data on floral visitation by insects in the field experiment for two field seasons and collected pollen and nectar from focal plants in the greenhouse to avoid interfering with insect visitation in the field. Results We found pollen amino acid concentrations were lower in plants exposed to low concentrations of herbicide, and pollen fatty acid concentrations were lower in plants exposed to low concentrations of fertilizer, while nectar amino acids were higher in plants exposed to low concentrations of either fertilizer or herbicide. Exposure to low fertilizer concentrations also increased the quantity of pollen and nectar produced per flower. The responses of plants exposed to the experimental treatments in the greenhouse helped explain insect visitation in the field study. The insect visitation rate correlated with nectar amino acids, pollen amino acids, and pollen fatty acids. An interaction between pollen protein and floral display suggested pollen amino acid concentrations drove insect preference among plant species when floral display sizes were large. We show that floral resource quality is sensitive to agrochemical exposure and that flower-visiting insects are sensitive to variation in floral resource quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Russo
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville, United States of America
- Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Angela Gronert
- Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Alexandra Klein
- Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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13
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Shah S, Ilyas M, Li R, Yang J, Yang FL. Microplastics and Nanoplastics Effects on Plant-Pollinator Interaction and Pollination Biology. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:6415-6424. [PMID: 37068375 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c07733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) contamination is an emerging environmental and public health concern, and these particles have been reported both in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Recent studies have expanded our understanding of the adverse effects of MNPs pollution on human, terrestrial, and aquatic animals, insects, and plants. In this perspective, we describe the adverse effects of MNPs particles on pollinator and plant health and discuss the mechanisms by which MNPs disrupt the pollination process. We discuss the evidence and integrate transcriptome studies to investigate the negative effects of MNPs on the molecular biology of pollination, which may cause delay or inhibit the pollination services. We conclude by addressing challenges to plant-pollinator health from MNPs pollution and argue that such harmful effects disrupt the communication between plant and pollinator for a successful pollination process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakhawat Shah
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, 430070 Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Muhammad Ilyas
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 666316 Menglun, China
- Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100045 Beijing, China
| | - Rui Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, 430070 Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 666316 Menglun, China
| | - Feng-Lian Yang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Insect Resources Utilization and Sustainable Pest Management, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, 430070 Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
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14
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Lv L, Li W, Li X, Wang D, Weng H, Zhu YC, Wang Y. Mixture toxic effects of thiacloprid and cyproconazole on honey bees (Apis mellifera L.). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 870:161700. [PMID: 36690094 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.161700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Pesticide exposure remains one of the main factors in the population decline of insect pollinators. It is urgently necessary to assess the effects of mixtures on pollinator risk assessments because they are often exposed to numerous agrochemicals. In the present study, we explored the mixture toxic effects of thiacloprid (THI) and cyproconazole (CYP) on honey bees (Apis mellifera L.). Our findings revealed that THI possessed higher acute toxicity to A. mellifera (96-h LC50 value of 216.3 mg a.i. L-1) than CYP (96-h LC50 value of 601.4 mg a.i. L-1). It's worth noting that the mixture of THI and CYP exerted an acute synergistic effect on honey bees. At the same time, the activities of detoxification enzyme cytochrome P450s (CYP450s) and neuro target enzyme Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), as well as the expressions of seven genes (CRBXase, CYP306A1, CYP6AS14, apidaecin, defensing-2, vtg, and gp-93) associated with detoxification metabolism, immune response, development, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, were significantly altered in the combined treatment compared with the corresponding individual exposures of THI or CYP. These data indicated that a mixture of THI and CYP could disturb the physiological homeostasis of honey bees. Our study provides a theoretical basis for in-depth studies on the impacts of pesticide mixtures on the health of honey bees. Our study also provides important guidance for the rational application of pesticide mixtures to protect pollinators in agricultural production effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lv
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products/Key Laboratory of Detection for Pesticide Residues and Control of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Wenhong Li
- Guizhou Institute of Plant Protection, Guizhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guiyang 550006, Guizhou, PR China
| | - Xinfang Li
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products/Key Laboratory of Detection for Pesticide Residues and Control of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Dou Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products/Key Laboratory of Detection for Pesticide Residues and Control of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Hongbiao Weng
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products/Key Laboratory of Detection for Pesticide Residues and Control of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, PR China
| | - Yu-Cheng Zhu
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS), 141 Experiment Station Road, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA.
| | - Yanhua Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products/Key Laboratory of Detection for Pesticide Residues and Control of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Quality and Standard for Agro-products, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, Zhejiang, PR China.
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15
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Underwood RM, Lawrence BL, Turley NE, Cambron-Kopco LD, Kietzman PM, Traver BE, López-Uribe MM. A longitudinal experiment demonstrates that honey bee colonies managed organically are as healthy and productive as those managed conventionally. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6072. [PMID: 37055462 PMCID: PMC10100614 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32824-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey bee colony management is critical to mitigating the negative effects of biotic and abiotic stressors. However, there is significant variation in the practices implemented by beekeepers, which results in varying management systems. This longitudinal study incorporated a systems approach to experimentally test the role of three representative beekeeping management systems (conventional, organic, and chemical-free) on the health and productivity of stationary honey-producing colonies over 3 years. We found that the survival rates for colonies in the conventional and organic management systems were equivalent, but around 2.8 times greater than the survival under chemical-free management. Honey production was also similar, with 102% and 119% more honey produced in conventional and organic management systems, respectively, than in the chemical-free management system. We also report significant differences in biomarkers of health including pathogen levels (DWV, IAPV, Vairimorpha apis, Vairimorpha ceranae) and gene expression (def-1, hym, nkd, vg). Our results experimentally demonstrate that beekeeping management practices are key drivers of survival and productivity of managed honey bee colonies. More importantly, we found that the organic management system-which uses organic-approved chemicals for mite control-supports healthy and productive colonies, and can be incorporated as a sustainable approach for stationary honey-producing beekeeping operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robyn M Underwood
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA.
| | - Brooke L Lawrence
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Nash E Turley
- Department of Entomology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | | | - Parry M Kietzman
- School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Brenna E Traver
- Department of Biology, Penn State Schuylkill, Schuylkill Haven, PA, USA
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16
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Martins CAH, Caliani I, D'Agostino A, Di Noi A, Casini S, Parrilli M, Azpiazu C, Bosch J, Sgolastra F. Biochemical responses, feeding and survival in the solitary bee Osmia bicornis following exposure to an insecticide and a fungicide alone and in combination. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:27636-27649. [PMID: 36383317 PMCID: PMC9995414 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-24061-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In agricultural ecosystems, bees are exposed to combinations of pesticides that may have been applied at different times. For example, bees visiting a flowering crop may be chronically exposed to low concentrations of systemic insecticides applied before bloom and then to a pulse of fungicide, considered safe for bees, applied during bloom. In this study, we simulate this scenario under laboratory conditions with females of the solitary bee, Osmia bicornis L. We studied the effects of chronic exposure to the neonicotinoid insecticide, Confidor® (imidacloprid) at a realistic concentration, and of a pulse (1 day) exposure of the fungicide Folicur® SE (tebuconazole) at field application rate. Syrup consumption, survival, and four biomarkers: acetylcholinesterase (AChE), carboxylesterase (CaE), glutathione S-transferase (GST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were evaluated at two different time points. An integrated biological response (IBRv2) index was elaborated with the biomarker results. The fungicide pulse had no impact on survival but temporarily reduced syrup consumption and increased the IBRv2 index, indicating potential molecular alterations. The neonicotinoid significantly reduced syrup consumption, survival, and the neurological activity of the enzymes. The co-exposure neonicotinoid-fungicide did not increase toxicity at the tested concentrations. AChE proved to be an efficient biomarker for the detection of early effects for both the insecticide and the fungicide. Our results highlight the importance of assessing individual and sub-individual endpoints to better understand pesticide effects on bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia Ariana Henriques Martins
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum Università Di Bologna, Viale Fanin 42, 40127, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Caliani
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Antonella D'Agostino
- Department of Management and Quantitative Studies, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - Agata Di Noi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli, 4, 53100, Siena, Italy.
| | - Silvia Casini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Via Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Martina Parrilli
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum Università Di Bologna, Viale Fanin 42, 40127, Bologna, Italy
| | - Celeste Azpiazu
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology (CSIC-Universitat Pompeu Fabra), Passeig Marítim de La Barceloneta 37, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Bosch
- CREAF, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Fabio Sgolastra
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum Università Di Bologna, Viale Fanin 42, 40127, Bologna, Italy
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17
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Leroy C, Brunet JL, Henry M, Alaux C. Using physiology to better support wild bee conservation. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 11:coac076. [PMID: 36632323 PMCID: PMC9825782 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coac076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
There is accumulating evidence that wild bees are experiencing a decline in terms of species diversity, abundance or distribution, which leads to major concerns about the sustainability of both pollination services and intrinsic biodiversity. There is therefore an urgent need to better understand the drivers of their decline, as well as design conservation strategies. In this context, the current approach consists of linking observed occurrence and distribution data of species to environmental features. While useful, a highly complementary approach would be the use of new biological metrics that can link individual bee responses to environmental alteration with population-level responses, which could communicate the actual bee sensitivity to environmental changes and act as early warning signals of bee population decline or sustainability. We discuss here through several examples how the measurement of bee physiological traits or performance can play this role not only in better assessing the impact of anthropogenic pressures on bees, but also in guiding conservation practices with the help of the documentation of species' physiological needs. Last but not least, because physiological changes generally occur well in advance of demographic changes, we argue that physiological traits can help in predicting and anticipating future population trends, which would represent a more proactive approach to conservation. In conclusion, we believe that future efforts to combine physiological, ecological and population-level knowledge will provide meaningful contributions to wild bee conservation-based research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jean-Luc Brunet
- INRAE, UR 406 Abeilles et Environnement, 84 914 Avignon, France
| | - Mickael Henry
- INRAE, UR 406 Abeilles et Environnement, 84 914 Avignon, France
| | - Cedric Alaux
- INRAE, UR 406 Abeilles et Environnement, 84 914 Avignon, France
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18
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Garibaldi LA, Gomez Carella DS, Nabaes Jodar DN, Smith MR, Timberlake TP, Myers SS. Exploring connections between pollinator health and human health. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210158. [PMID: 35491592 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in understanding the role of biodiversity in ecosystem-service provision, the links between the health of ecosystem-service providers and human health remain more uncertain. During the past decade, an increasing number of studies have argued for the positive impacts of healthy pollinator communities (defined as functionally and genetically diverse species assemblages that are sustained over time) on human health. Here, we begin with a systematic review of these impacts, finding only two studies that concomitantly quantified aspects of pollinator health and human health. Next, we identify relevant research relating to four pathways linking pollinator health and human health: nutrition, medicine provisioning, mental health and environmental quality. These benefits are obtained through improved pollination of nutritious crops and an estimated approximately 28 000 animal-pollinated medicinal plants; the provisioning of pollinator-derived products such as honey; the maintenance of green spaces and biocultural landscapes that improve mental health; and cleaner air, water and food resulting from pollinator-centred initiatives to reduce agrochemical use. We suggest that pollinator diversity could be a proxy for the benefits that landscapes provide to human health. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas A Garibaldi
- Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - Dulce S Gomez Carella
- Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - Diego N Nabaes Jodar
- Universidad Nacional de Río Negro, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Recursos Naturales, Agroecología y Desarrollo Rural, Río Negro, Argentina
| | - Matthew R Smith
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, 02115 MA, USA
| | - Thomas P Timberlake
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ UK
| | - Samuel S Myers
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, 02115 MA, USA.,Harvard University Center for the Environment, Cambridge, 02138 MA, USA
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19
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Gillespie MAK, Baude M, Biesmeijer J, Boatman N, Budge GE, Crowe A, Davies N, Evans R, Memmott J, Morton RD, Moss E, Murphy M, Pietravalle S, Potts SG, Roberts SPM, Rowland C, Senapathi D, Smart SM, Wood C, Kunin WE. Landscape-scale drivers of pollinator communities may depend on land-use configuration. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210172. [PMID: 35491602 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Research into pollinators in managed landscapes has recently combined approaches of pollination ecology and landscape ecology, because key stressors are likely to interact across wide areas. While laboratory and field experiments are valuable for furthering understanding, studies are required to investigate the interacting drivers of pollinator health and diversity across a broader range of landscapes and a wider array of taxa. Here, we use a network of 96 study landscapes in six topographically diverse regions of Britain, to test the combined importance of honeybee density, insecticide loadings, floral resource availability and habitat diversity to pollinator communities. We also explore the interactions between these drivers and the cover and proximity of semi-natural habitat. We found that among our four drivers, only honeybee density was positively related to wild pollinator abundance and diversity, and the positive association between abundance and floral resources depended on insecticide loadings and habitat diversity. By contrast, our exploratory models including habitat composition metrics revealed a complex suite of interactive effects. These results demonstrate that improving pollinator community composition and health is unlikely to be achieved with general resource enhancements only. Rather, local land-use context should be considered in fine-tuning pollinator management and conservation. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A K Gillespie
- School of Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.,Department of Science and Engineering, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, PB 133, 6851 Sogndal, Norway
| | - Mathilde Baude
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol BS8 1UG, UK.,INRAE USC1328, LBLGC EA1207, University of Orléans, rue de Chartres, BP 6759, 45067 Orléans Cedex 2, France
| | - Jacobus Biesmeijer
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, 2333 CR Leiden, The Netherlands.,Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nigel Boatman
- Fera Science Ltd (previously Food and Environment Research Agency), Sand Hutton, York YO41 1LZ, UK
| | - Giles E Budge
- Fera Science Ltd (previously Food and Environment Research Agency), Sand Hutton, York YO41 1LZ, UK.,School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK
| | - Andrew Crowe
- Fera Science Ltd (previously Food and Environment Research Agency), Sand Hutton, York YO41 1LZ, UK
| | - Nancy Davies
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol BS8 1UG, UK
| | - Rebecca Evans
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Jane Memmott
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol BS8 1UG, UK
| | - R Daniel Morton
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Ellen Moss
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK.,Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Mark Murphy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Stephane Pietravalle
- Fera Science Ltd (previously Food and Environment Research Agency), Sand Hutton, York YO41 1LZ, UK
| | - Simon G Potts
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Stuart P M Roberts
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Clare Rowland
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Deepa Senapathi
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AR, UK
| | - Simon M Smart
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK
| | - Claire Wood
- UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Library Avenue, Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, UK
| | - William E Kunin
- School of Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.,Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), Wallenberg Research Centre at Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
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20
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Balbuena MS, Broadhead GT, Dahake A, Barnett E, Vergara M, Skogen KA, Jogesh T, Raguso RA. Mutualism has its limits: consequences of asymmetric interactions between a well-defended plant and its herbivorous pollinator. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210166. [PMID: 35491593 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Concern for pollinator health often focuses on social bees and their agricultural importance at the expense of other pollinators and their ecosystem services. When pollinating herbivores use the same plants as nectar sources and larval hosts, ecological conflicts emerge for both parties, as the pollinator's services are mitigated by herbivory and its larvae are harmed by plant defences. We tracked individual-level metrics of pollinator health-growth, survivorship, fecundity-across the life cycle of a pollinating herbivore, the common hawkmoth, Hyles lineata, interacting with a rare plant, Oenothera harringtonii, that is polymorphic for the common floral volatile (R)-(-)-linalool. Linalool had no impact on floral attraction, but its experimental addition suppressed oviposition on plants lacking linalool. Plants showed robust resistance against herbivory from leaf-disc to whole-plant scales, through poor larval growth and survivorship. Higher larval performance on other Oenothera species indicates that constitutive herbivore resistance by O. harringtonii is not a genus-wide trait. Leaf volatiles differed among populations of O. harringtonii but were not induced by larval herbivory. Similarly, elagitannins and other phenolics varied among plant tissues but were not herbivore-induced. Our findings highlight asymmetric plant-pollinator interactions and the importance of third parties, including alternative larval host plants, in maintaining pollinator health. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Sol Balbuena
- Department of Neurobiology and Behaviour, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.,Instituto de Fisiología, Biología Molecular y Neurociencias (IFIBYNE), CONICET, Universidad de Buenos Aires, C1428EHA, Argentina
| | - Geoffrey T Broadhead
- Department of Neurobiology and Behaviour, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Ajinkya Dahake
- Department of Neurobiology and Behaviour, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Emily Barnett
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Melissa Vergara
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA
| | - Krissa A Skogen
- Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action, Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, IL 60035, USA
| | - Tania Jogesh
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA.,Negaunee Institute for Plant Conservation Science and Action, Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe, IL 60035, USA
| | - Robert A Raguso
- Department of Neurobiology and Behaviour, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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21
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Stevenson PC, Koch H, Nicolson SW, Brown MJF. Natural processes influencing pollinator health. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210154. [PMID: 35491596 PMCID: PMC9062705 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence from the last few decades indicates that pollinator abundance and diversity are at risk, with many species in decline. Anthropogenic impacts have been the focus of much recent work on the causes of these declines. However, natural processes, from plant chemistry, nutrition and microbial associations to landscape and habitat change, can also profoundly influence pollinator health. Here, we argue that these natural processes require greater attention and may even provide solutions to the deteriorating outlook for pollinators. Existing studies also focus on the decline of individuals and colonies and only occasionally at population levels. In the light of this we redefine pollinator health and argue that a top-down approach is required focusing at the ecological level of communities. We use examples from the primary research, opinion and review articles published in this special issue to illustrate how natural processes influence pollinator health, from community to individuals, and highlight where some of these processes could mitigate the challenges of anthropogenic and natural drivers of change. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Stevenson
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Kew Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE, UK.,Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Hauke Koch
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Kew Green, Richmond, Surrey TW9 3AE, UK
| | - Susan W Nicolson
- Department of Zoology & Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Mark J F Brown
- Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, Surrey TW20 0EX, UK
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22
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Jones J, Rader R. Pollinator nutrition and its role in merging the dual objectives of pollinator health and optimal crop production. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210170. [PMID: 35491607 PMCID: PMC9058521 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Bee and non-bee insect pollinators play an integral role in the quantity and quality of production for many food crops, yet there is growing evidence that nutritional challenges to pollinators in agricultural landscapes are an important factor in the reduction of pollinator populations worldwide. Schemes to enhance crop pollinator health have historically focused on floral resource plantings aimed at increasing pollinator abundance and diversity by providing more foraging opportunities for bees. These efforts have demonstrated that improvements in bee diversity and abundance are achievable; however, goals of increasing crop pollination outcomes via these interventions are not consistently met. To support pollinator health and crop pollination outcomes in tandem, habitat enhancements must be tailored to meet the life-history needs of specific crop pollinators, including non-bees. This will require greater understanding of the nutritional demands of these taxa together with the supply of floral and non-floral food resources and how these interact in cropping environments. Understanding the mechanisms underlying crop pollination and pollinator health in unison across a range of taxa is clearly a win–win for industry and conservation, yet achievement of these goals will require new knowledge and novel, targeted methods. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Jones
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Romina Rader
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
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23
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Martin VN, Schaeffer RN, Fukami T. Potential effects of nectar microbes on pollinator health. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210155. [PMID: 35491594 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Floral nectar is prone to colonization by nectar-adapted yeasts and bacteria via air-, rain-, and animal-mediated dispersal. Upon colonization, microbes can modify nectar chemical constituents that are plant-provisioned or impart their own through secretion of metabolic by-products or antibiotics into the nectar environment. Such modifications can have consequences for pollinator perception of nectar quality, as microbial metabolism can leave a distinct imprint on olfactory and gustatory cues that inform foraging decisions. Furthermore, direct interactions between pollinators and nectar microbes, as well as consumption of modified nectar, have the potential to affect pollinator health both positively and negatively. Here, we discuss and integrate recent findings from research on plant-microbe-pollinator interactions and their consequences for pollinator health. We then explore future avenues of research that could shed light on the myriad ways in which nectar microbes can affect pollinator health, including the taxonomic diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate pollinators that rely on this reward. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tadashi Fukami
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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24
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Brown MJF. Complex networks of parasites and pollinators: moving towards a healthy balance. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210161. [PMID: 35491603 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasites are viewed as a major threat to wild pollinator health. While this may be true for epidemics driven by parasite spillover from managed or invasive species, the picture is more complex for endemic parasites. Wild pollinator species host and share a species-rich, generalist parasite community. In contrast to the negative health impacts that these parasites impose on individual hosts, at a community level they may act to reduce competition from common and abundant pollinator species. By providing rare species with space in which to exist, this will act to support and maintain a diverse and thus healthier pollinator community. At this level, and perhaps paraxodically, parasites may be good for pollinators. This stands in clear contrast to the obvious negative impacts of epidemic and spillover parasites on wild pollinator communities. Research into floral resources that control parasites could be best employed to help design landscapes that provide pollinators with the opportunity to moderate their parasite community, rather than attempting to eliminate specific parasites from wild pollinator communities. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J F Brown
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour, Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Sciences and the Environment, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham TW20 0EX, UK
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25
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Fowler AE, Sadd BM, Bassingthwaite T, Irwin RE, Adler LS. Consuming sunflower pollen reduced pathogen infection but did not alter measures of immunity in bumblebees. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210160. [PMID: 35491606 PMCID: PMC9058531 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Certain diets can benefit bee health by reducing pathogens, but the mechanism(s) driving these medicinal effects are largely unexplored. Recent research found that sunflower (Helianthus annuus) pollen reduces the gut pathogen Crithidia bombi in the common eastern bumblebee (Bombus impatiens). Here, we tested the effects of sunflower pollen and infection on two bee immune metrics to determine whether sunflower pollen diet drives changes in host immunity that can explain this medicinal effect. Bees were infected with C. bombi or not and given either sunflower or wildflower pollen. Subsequently, bees received a benign immune challenge or were left naive to test the induced and constitutive immune responses, respectively. We measured haemolymph phenoloxidase activity, involved in the melanization cascade, and antibacterial activity. Sunflower pollen reduced C. bombi infection, but we found no significant pollen diet effect on either immune measure. Phenoloxidase activity was also not affected by C. bombi infection status; however, uninfected bees were more likely to have measurable constitutive antibacterial activity, while infected bees had higher induced antibacterial activity. Overall, we found that sunflower pollen does not significantly affect the immune responses we measured, suggesting that the mechanisms underlying its medicinal effect do not involve these bee immune parameters. This article is part of the theme issue 'Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison E. Fowler
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 221 Morrill Science Center South, 611 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Ben M. Sadd
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790, USA
| | - Toby Bassingthwaite
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790, USA
| | - Rebecca E. Irwin
- Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Lynn S. Adler
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 221 Morrill Science Center South, 611 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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26
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Paromomycin Reduces Vairimorpha (Nosema) ceranae Infection in Honey Bees but Perturbs Microbiome Levels and Midgut Cell Function. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10061107. [PMID: 35744625 PMCID: PMC9231153 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10061107] [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: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Paromomycin is a naturally occurring aminoglycoside antibiotic that has effects on both prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes. However, previous reports have indicated that it has little effect on microsporidia, including Vairimorpha (Nosema) ceranae, in cell culture models. V. ceranae is one of a number of microsporidia species that cause disease in honey bees and substantial efforts to find new treatment strategies for bees that are infected with these pathogens are ongoing. When testing compounds for potential activity against V. ceranae in whole organisms, we found that paromomycin reduces the infection intensity of this parasite. Critically, the necessary doses of paromomycin have high activity against the bacteria of the honey bee microbiome and cause evident stress in bees. Microsporidia have been shown to lack an essential binding site on the ribosome that is known to allow for maximal inhibition by paromomycin. Thus, it is possible that paromomycin impacts parasite levels through non-cell autonomous effects on microsporidia infection levels via effects on the microbiome or midgut cellular function. As paromomycin treatment could cause widespread honey bee health issues in agricultural settings, it does not represent an appropriate anti-microsporidia agent for use in the field.
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27
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Hussain S, De Waele J, Lammens M, Bosmans F. N-Type Inactivation Variances in Honeybee and Asian Giant Hornet Kv Channels. Bioelectricity 2022. [DOI: 10.1089/bioe.2022.0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Hussain
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jolien De Waele
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maxime Lammens
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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28
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Galanis A, Vardakas P, Reczko M, Harokopos V, Hatzis P, Skoulakis EMC, Pavlopoulos GA, Patalano S. Bee foraging preferences, microbiota and pathogens revealed by direct shotgun metagenomics of honey. Mol Ecol Resour 2022; 22:2506-2523. [PMID: 35593171 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Honeybees (Apis mellifera) continue to succumb to human and environmental pressures despite their crucial role in providing essential ecosystem services. Owing to their foraging and honey production activities, honeybees form complex relationships with species across all domains, such as plants, viruses, bacteria and other hive pests, making honey a valuable biomonitoring tool for assessing their ecological niche. Thus, the application of honey shotgun metagenomics (SM) has paved the way for a detailed description of the species honeybees interact with. Nevertheless, SM bioinformatics tools and DNA extraction methods rely on resources not necessarily optimized for honey. In this study, we compared five widely used taxonomic classifiers using simulated species communities commonly found in honey. We found that Kraken 2 with a threshold of 0.5 performs best in assessing species distribution. We also optimized a simple NaOH-based honey DNA extraction methodology (Direct-SM), which profiled species seasonal variability similarly to an established column-based DNA extraction approach (SM). Both approaches produce results consistent with melissopalinology analysis describing the botanical landscape surrounding the apiary. Interestingly, we detected a strong stability of the bacteria constituting the core and noncore gut microbiome across seasons, pointing to the potential utility of honey for noninvasive assessment of bee microbiota. Finally, the Direct-SM approach to detect Varroa correlates well with the biomonitoring of mite infestation observed in hives. These observations suggest that Direct-SM methodology has the potential to comprehensively describe honeybee ecological niches and can be tested as a building block for large-scale studies to assess bee health in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Galanis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece.,Division of Animal and Human Physiology, Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Philippos Vardakas
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece.,Department of Apiculture, Institute of Animal Science, Nea Moudania, Greece
| | - Martin Reczko
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Vaggelis Harokopos
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Pantelis Hatzis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Efthimios M C Skoulakis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Georgios A Pavlopoulos
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
| | - Solenn Patalano
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research (IFBR), BSRC 'Alexander Fleming', Vari, Greece
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29
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Ricigliano VA, Williams ST, Oliver R. Effects of different artificial diets on commercial honey bee colony performance, health biomarkers, and gut microbiota. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:52. [PMID: 35062935 PMCID: PMC8780706 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03151-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Honey bee colonies managed for agricultural pollination are highly dependent on human inputs, especially for disease control and supplemental nutrition. Hives are routinely fed artificial “pollen substitute” diets to compensate for insufficient nutritional forage in the environment. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different artificial diets in a northern California, US commercial beekeeping operation from August through February. This time period represents an extended forage dearth when supplemental nutrition is used to stimulate late winter colony growth prior to almond pollination in the early spring. A total of 144 honey bee colonies were divided into 8 feeding groups that were replicated at three apiary sites. Feeding groups received commercial diets (Global, Ultra Bee, Bulk Soft, MegaBee, AP23, Healthy Bees), a beekeeper-formulated diet (Homebrew), or a sugar negative control. Diets were analyzed for macronutrient and amino acid content then evaluated with respect to honey bee colony population size, average bee weight, nutrition-related gene expression, gut microbiota abundance, and pathogen levels. Results Replicated at three apiary sites, two pollen-containing diets (Global and Homebrew) produced the largest colonies and the heaviest bees per colony. Two diets (Bulk Soft and AP23) that did not contain pollen led to significantly larger colonies than a sugar negative control diet. Diet macronutrient content was not correlated with colony size or health biomarkers. The sum of dietary essential amino acid deficiencies relative to leucine content were correlated with average bee weight in November and colony size used for almond pollination in February. Nutrition-related gene expression, gut microbiota, and pathogen levels were influenced by apiary site, which overrode some diet effects. Regarding microbiota, diet had a significant impact on the abundance of Bifidobacterium and Gilliamella and trended towards effects on other prominent bee gut taxa. Conclusions Multiple colony and individual bee measures are necessary to test diet efficacy since honey bee nutritional responses are complex to evaluate. Balancing essential amino acid content relative to leucine instead of tryptophan may improve diet protein efficiency ratios. Optimization of bee diets could improve feed sustainability and agricultural pollination efficiency by supporting larger, healthier honey bee colonies. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-022-03151-5.
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30
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Simone-Finstrom M, Strand MK, Tarpy DR, Rueppell O. Impact of Honey Bee Migratory Management on Pathogen Loads and Immune Gene Expression is Affected by Complex Interactions With Environment, Worker Life History, and Season. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2022; 22:6523145. [PMID: 35137136 PMCID: PMC8825759 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieab096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The effects of honey bee management, such as intensive migratory beekeeping, are part of the ongoing debate concerning causes of colony health problems. Even though comparisons of disease and pathogen loads among differently managed colonies indicate some effects, the direct impact of migratory practices on honey bee pathogens is poorly understood. To test long- and short-term impacts of managed migration on pathogen loads and immunity, experimental honey bee colonies were maintained with or without migratory movement. Individuals that experienced migration as juveniles (e.g., larval and pupal development), as adults, or both were compared to control colonies that remained stationary and therefore did not experience migratory relocation. Samples at different ages and life-history stages (hive bees or foragers), taken at the beginning and end of the active season, were analyzed for pathogen loads and physiological markers of health. Bees exposed to migratory management during adulthood had increased levels of the AKI virus complex (Acute bee paralysis, Kashmir bee, and Israeli acute bee paralysis viruses) and decreased levels of antiviral gene expression (dicer-like). However, those in stationary management as adults had elevated gut parasites (i.e. trypanosomes). Effects of environment during juvenile development were more complex and interacted with life-history stage and season. Age at collection, life-history stage, and season all influenced numerous factors from viral load to immune gene expression. Although the factors that we examined are not independent, the results illuminate potential factors in both migratory and nonmigratory beekeeping that are likely to contribute to colony stress, and also indicate potential mitigation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Simone-Finstrom
- USDA-ARS Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics and Physiology Research Laboratory, 1157 Ben Hur Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70820, USA
- Corresponding author, e-mail:
| | - Micheline K Strand
- Life Sciences Branch, U.S. Army Research Office, 800 Park Office Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27703, USA
| | - David R Tarpy
- Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University, 100 Derieux Place, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- The W.M. Keck Center for Behavioral Biology, North Carolina State University, 112 Derieux Place, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Current address: Department of Applied Ecology, North Carolina State University, 100 Eugene Brooks Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Olav Rueppell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, CW 405 Biological Sciences Building, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2E9, Canada
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 321 McIver Street, Greensboro, NC 27412, USA
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31
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Prado A, Brunet JL, Peruzzi M, Bonnet M, Bordier C, Crauser D, Le Conte Y, Alaux C. Warmer winters are associated with lower levels of the cryoprotectant glycerol, a slower decrease in vitellogenin expression and reduced virus infections in winter honeybees. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 136:104348. [PMID: 34906562 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2021.104348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Within the context of climate change, winter temperatures at high latitudes are predicted to rise faster than summer temperatures. This phenomenon is expected to negatively affect the diapause performance and survival of insects, since they largely rely on low temperatures to lower their metabolism and preserve energy. However, some insects like honeybees, remain relatively active during the winter and elevate their metabolic rate to produce endothermic heat when temperatures drop. Warming winters are thus expected to improve overwintering performance of honeybees. In order to verify this hypothesis, for two consecutive years, we exposed honeybee colonies to either a mild or cold winter. We then monitored the influence of wintering conditions on several parameters of honeybee overwintering physiology, such as levels of the cryoprotectant glycerol, expression levels of immune and antioxidant genes, and genes encoding multifunctional proteins, including vitellogenin, which promotes bee longevity. Winter conditions had no effect on the expression of antioxidant genes, and genes related to immunity were not consistently affected. However, mild winters were consistently associated with a lower investment in glycerol synthesis and a higher expression of fat body genes, especially apidaecin and vitellogenin. Finally, while we found that viral loads generally decreased through the winter, this trend was more pronounced under mild winter conditions. In conclusion, and without considering how warming temperatures might affect other aspects of honeybee biology before overwintering, our data suggest that warming temperatures will likely benefit honeybee vitality by notably reducing their viral loads over the winter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Prado
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Unidad Juriquilla, UNAM Querétaro, Mexico
| | | | | | - Marc Bonnet
- INRAE, Abeilles & Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France
| | - Celia Bordier
- INRAE, Abeilles & Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France
| | | | - Yves Le Conte
- INRAE, Abeilles & Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France
| | - Cedric Alaux
- INRAE, Abeilles & Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France.
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32
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Zhao K, Wu H, Hou R, Wu J, Wang Y, Huang S, Cheng D, Xu H, Zhang Z. Effects of sublethal azadirachtin on the immune response and midgut microbiome of Apis cerana cerana (Hymenoptera: Apidae). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 229:113089. [PMID: 34929506 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.113089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As a wildly used plant-derived insecticide, azadirachtin (AZA) is commonly reported as harmless to a range of beneficial insects. However, with the research on the effect of AZA against pollinators in recent years, various negative physiological effects on other Apidae species have been demonstrated. Thus to explore the safety of azadirachtin to Apis cerana cerana, the different physiological effects of sublethal concentration of azadirachtin on worker bees A.c.cerana has been studied. With the exposure of 5 mg·L-1 and 10 mg·L-1 azadirachtin for 5 d, the relative expression of Apidaecin, Abaecin and Lysosome genes in workers has decreased significantly at 1, 2,3 and 5 d, and the mRNA levels of Defensin 2 and Hymenoptaecin were also significantly inhibited by 10 mg·L-1 azadirachtin at each check point. Besides, the activity of midgut antioxidant enzymes Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) which are the first line of defence in antioxidant systems was not affected by AZA, the activity of Peroxidase (POD) showed a fluctuating pattern at 24 h and 48 h, while the activity of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) has significantly inhibited by AZA. However, through 16sRNA analysis it was observed that 5 mg·L-1 AZA did not affect the midgut microbiome colony composition and relative abundance, as well as its main function. Therefore, to a certain extent, azadirachtin is safe for workers, but we should pay more attention to the sublethal effect of AZA that also detrimental to the healthy development of the honeybee colony.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunyu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Ruiquan Hou
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jiyingzi Wu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yongqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Suqing Huang
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Dongmei Cheng
- Zhongkai University of Agriculture and Engineering, Guangzhou 510225, China
| | - Hanhong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Zhixiang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology, Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
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33
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Parreño MA, Alaux C, Brunet JL, Buydens L, Filipiak M, Henry M, Keller A, Klein AM, Kuhlmann M, Leroy C, Meeus I, Palmer-Young E, Piot N, Requier F, Ruedenauer F, Smagghe G, Stevenson PC, Leonhardt SD. Critical links between biodiversity and health in wild bee conservation. Trends Ecol Evol 2021; 37:309-321. [PMID: 34955328 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2021.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Wild bee populations are declining due to human activities, such as land use change, which strongly affect the composition and diversity of available plants and food sources. The chemical composition of food (i.e., nutrition) in turn determines the health, resilience, and fitness of bees. For pollinators, however, the term 'health' is recent and is subject to debate, as is the interaction between nutrition and wild bee health. We define bee health as a multidimensional concept in a novel integrative framework linking bee biological traits (physiology, stoichiometry, and disease) and environmental factors (floral diversity and nutritional landscapes). Linking information on tolerated nutritional niches and health in different bee species will allow us to better predict their distribution and responses to environmental change, and thus support wild pollinator conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Parreño
- Plant-Insect Interactions, TUM School of Life Science Systems, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Freising, Germany.
| | - C Alaux
- INRAE, Abeilles et Environnement, Avignon, France
| | - J-L Brunet
- INRAE, Abeilles et Environnement, Avignon, France
| | - L Buydens
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Filipiak
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387 Kraków, Poland.
| | - M Henry
- INRAE, Abeilles et Environnement, Avignon, France
| | - A Keller
- Center for Computational and Theoretical Biology, and Department of Bioinformatics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
| | - A-M Klein
- Chair of Nature Conservation and Landscape Ecology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - M Kuhlmann
- Zoological Museum of Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - C Leroy
- INRAE, Abeilles et Environnement, Avignon, France
| | - I Meeus
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - E Palmer-Young
- US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - N Piot
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - F Requier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, IRD, UMR Évolution, Génomes, Comportement, et Écologie, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - F Ruedenauer
- Plant-Insect Interactions, TUM School of Life Science Systems, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Freising, Germany
| | - G Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - P C Stevenson
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Surrey TW9 3AE, UK; University of Greenwich, London, UK
| | - S D Leonhardt
- Plant-Insect Interactions, TUM School of Life Science Systems, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Freising, Germany.
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Shih SR, Bach DM, Rondeau NC, Sam J, Lovinger NL, Lopatkin AJ, Snow JW. Honey bee sHSP are responsive to diverse proteostatic stresses and potentially promising biomarkers of honey bee stress. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22087. [PMID: 34764357 PMCID: PMC8586346 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01547-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The pollination services provided by the honey bee are critical in both natural and agricultural ecosystems. Honey bee colonies in the United States have suffered from an increased rate of die-off in recent years, stemming from a complex set of interacting stresses that remain poorly described. Defining specific common cellular processes and cellular stress responses impacted by multiple stressors represent a key step in understanding these synergies. Proteotoxic stresses negatively impact protein synthesis, folding, and degradation. Diverse proteotoxic stresses induce expression of genes encoding small heat shock proteins (sHSP) of the expanded lethal (2) essential for life (l(2)efl) gene family. In addition to upregulation by the Integrated Stress Response (ISR), the Heat Shock Response (HSR), and the Oxidative Stress Response (OSR), our data provide first evidence that sHSP genes are upregulated by the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR). As these genes appear to be part of a core stress response that could serve as a useful biomarker for cellular stress in honey bees, we designed and tested an RT-LAMP assay to detect increased l(2)efl gene expression in response to heat-stress. While this assay provides a powerful proof of principle, further work will be necessary to link changes in sHSP gene expression to colony-level outcomes, to adapt our preliminary assay into a Point of Care Testing (POCT) assay appropriate for use as a diagnostic tool for use in the field, and to couple assay results to management recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha R Shih
- Biology Department, Barnard College, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Dunay M Bach
- Biology Department, Barnard College, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | | | - Jessica Sam
- Biology Department, Barnard College, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | | | | | - Jonathan W Snow
- Biology Department, Barnard College, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
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Wen X, Ma C, Sun M, Wang Y, Xue X, Chen J, Song W, Li-Byarlay H, Luo S. Pesticide residues in the pollen and nectar of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) and their potential risks to honey bees. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 786:147443. [PMID: 33965824 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Research evidence suggests that pesticide residues are one of the leading potential causes of the decline in pollinators, especially during vulnerable periods such as foraging in the early springtime. In China, no research quantifies pesticide residues in the nectar and pollen of honey bee colonies during this period or examines the potential risks and toxicity of pesticides to honey bees. Oilseed rape is one of the first and primary bee-attractive plants in most parts of China. Here, we investigated the pesticide residues in the oilseed rape of the years 2017 and 2018 in China. The hazard quotient (HQ) from pollen and nectar and the BeeREX risk assessment were used to evaluate the potential risks of the pesticide residues to honey bees. We detected 48 pesticides in pollen samples and 34 chemicals in nectar samples. The maximum pollen HQ (PHQ) values (contact or oral) ranged from 0.16 to 706,421, and the maximum nectar HQ (NHQ) values (contact or oral) ranged from 0.07 to 185,135. In particular, carbofuran, cyfluthrin, deltamethrin, and fenpropathrin have relatively high PHQ and NHQ values. Our results indicated that further investigation of nearly half of the tested compounds is needed because their PHQ or NHQ values are more than 50. Especially cyfluthrin and carbofuran need advanced tier assessment due to their maximum RQ (risk quotient) values exceeding the level of concern. These results provide valuable guidance for protecting bees and other pollinators in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Wen
- Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China; Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, China
| | - Changsheng Ma
- Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Minghui Sun
- Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ye Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xue
- Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Chen
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, China
| | - Wencheng Song
- Institute for the Control of Agrochemicals, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Beijing, China
| | - Hongmei Li-Byarlay
- Agricultural Research and Development Program, Central State University, Wilberforce, OH, USA.
| | - Shudong Luo
- Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China; Western Agricultural Research Center, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, China.
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Japanese Honeybees ( Apis cerana japonica Radoszkowski, 1877) May Be Resilient to Land Use Change. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12080685. [PMID: 34442251 PMCID: PMC8396638 DOI: 10.3390/insects12080685] [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: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Pollinators are threatened globally by growing urban sprawl and agriculture. The Western Honeybee (Apis mellifera) readily adapts to whatever food is available, so people have made it the most widely distributed pollinator across the world. Previous research has suggested that the Western Honeybee may be less resilient to land use change outside of its natural range. This study examines a different honeybee species—the Japanese Honeybee (Apis cerana japonica). Unlike the Western Honeybee, this species is found almost exclusively in its natural range in Japan. Consequently, it may be better adapted to its local food sources and therefore more resilient. Working in southern Japan, in the Nagasaki and Saga prefectures, we looked at the nectar and pollen that the Japanese Honeybee feeds on. Their food intake was then examined in relation to local land use composition. We found minimal impact of increasing urban sprawl on the forage of the Japanese Honeybee. This goes against previous studies on the Western Honeybee elsewhere in the world. Though in need of a direct comparison with Western Honeybee, these preliminary results could be due to differences in urban green infrastructure in Japan, or due to an adaptation by the Japanese honeybee to its surroundings. Abstract Pollinators are being threatened globally by urbanisation and agricultural intensification, driven by a growing human population. Understanding these impacts on landscapes and pollinators is critical to ensuring a robust pollination system. Remote sensing data on land use attributes have previously linked honeybee nutrition to land use in the Western Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.). Here, we instead focus on the less commonly studied Apis cerana japonica—the Japanese Honeybee. Our study presents preliminary data comparing forage (honey and pollen) with land use across a rural-urban gradient from 22 sites in Kyushu, southern Japan. Honey samples were collected from hives between June 2018 and August 2019. Pollen were collected and biotyped from hives in urban and rural locations (n = 4). Previous studies of honey show substantial variation in monosaccharide content. Our analysis of A. cerana japonica honey found very little variation in glucose and fructose (which accounted for 97% of monosaccharides), despite substantial differences in surrounding forage composition. As expected, we observed temporal variation in pollen foraged by A. cerana japonica, likely dependent on flowering phenology. These preliminary results suggest that the forage and nutrition of A. cerana japonica may not be negatively affected by urban land use. This highlights the need for further comparative studies between A. cerana japonica and A. mellifera as it could suggest a resilience in pollinators foraging in their native range.
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Naree S, Ponkit R, Chotiaroonrat E, Mayack CL, Suwannapong G. Propolis Extract and Chitosan Improve Health of Nosema ceranae Infected Giant Honey Bees, Apis dorsata Fabricius, 1793. Pathogens 2021; 10:785. [PMID: 34206455 PMCID: PMC8308750 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Nosema ceranae is a large contributing factor to the most recent decline in honey bee health worldwide. Developing new alternative treatments against N. ceranae is particularly pressing because there are few treatment options available and therefore the risk of increased antibiotic resistance is quite high. Recently, natural products have demonstrated to be a promising avenue for finding new effective treatments against N. ceranae. We evaluated the effects of propolis extract of stingless bee, Tetrigona apicalis and chito-oligosaccharide (COS) on giant honey bees, Apis dorsata, experimentally infected with N. ceranae to determine if these treatments could improve the health of the infected individuals. Newly emerged Nosema-free bees were individually inoculated with 106N. ceranae spores per bee. We fed infected and control bees the following treatments consisting of 0%, 50%, propolis extracts, 0 ppm and 0.5 ppm COS in honey solution (w/v). Propolis extracts and COS caused a significant increase in trehalose levels in hemolymph, protein contents, survival rates and acini diameters of the hypopharyngeal glands in infected bees. Our results suggest that propolis and COS could improve the health of infected bees. Further research is needed to determine the underlying mechanisms responsible for the improved health of the infected bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanchai Naree
- Biological Science Program, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Chon Buri 20131, Thailand; (S.N.); (R.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Rujira Ponkit
- Biological Science Program, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Chon Buri 20131, Thailand; (S.N.); (R.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Evada Chotiaroonrat
- Biological Science Program, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Chon Buri 20131, Thailand; (S.N.); (R.P.); (E.C.)
| | - Christopher L. Mayack
- Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, 34956 Istanbul, Turkey;
| | - Guntima Suwannapong
- Biological Science Program, Faculty of Science, Burapha University, Chon Buri 20131, Thailand; (S.N.); (R.P.); (E.C.)
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Kasiotis KM, Zafeiraki E, Kapaxidi E, Manea-Karga E, Antonatos S, Anastasiadou P, Milonas P, Machera K. Pesticides residues and metabolites in honeybees: A Greek overview exploring Varroa and Nosema potential synergies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 769:145213. [PMID: 33736246 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate reported cases of honeybee mortality incidents and the potential association to pesticide exposure and to their metabolites. The same honeybee samples were also assessed for Varroa mites, and Nosema microsporidia provoked infections to provide an integrated picture of all observable stressors that may impact bees' survival. Thus, honeybee samples from different areas of Greece (2014-2018) were analyzed for the presence of pesticide residues and metabolites. In this context, an existing LC-ESI-QqQ-MS multiresidue method of analytes of different chemical classes such as neonicotinoids, organophosphates, triazoles, carbamates, was enriched with additional active substances, developed and validated. A complementary GC-EI-QqQ-MS method was also exploited for the same scope covering pyrethroid compounds. Both methods monitored more than 150 active substances and metabolites and presented acceptable linearity over the ranges assayed. The calculated recoveries ranged from 65 to 120% for the three concentration levels, while the precision (RSD%) values ranged between 4 and 15%. Therefore, this approach proved sufficient to act as a monitoring tool for the determination of pesticide residues in cases of suspected honeybee poisoning incidents. From the analysis of 320 samples, the presence of 70 active substances and metabolites was confirmed with concentrations varying from 1.4 ng/g to 166 μg/g. Predominant detections were the acaricide coumaphos, several neonicotinoids exemplified by clothianidin, organophosporous compounds dimethoate and chlorpyrifos, and some pyrethroids. Metabolites of imidacloprid, chlorpyrifos, coumaphos, acetamiprid, fenthion and amitraz were also identified. Concerning Nosema and Varroa they were identified in 27 and 22% of samples examined, respectively, verifying their prevalence and coexistence with pesticides and their metabolites in honeybees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos M Kasiotis
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Department of Pesticides Control and Phytopharmacy, Laboratory of Pesticides' Toxicology, 8 St. Delta Street, Kifissia, 14561 Athens, Greece.
| | - Effrosyni Zafeiraki
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Department of Pesticides Control and Phytopharmacy, Laboratory of Pesticides' Toxicology, 8 St. Delta Street, Kifissia, 14561 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleftheria Kapaxidi
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Department of Entomology & Agricultural Entomology, Laboratory of Acarology & Agricultural Zoology, Greece
| | - Elektra Manea-Karga
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Department of Pesticides Control and Phytopharmacy, Laboratory of Pesticides' Toxicology, 8 St. Delta Street, Kifissia, 14561 Athens, Greece
| | - Spyridon Antonatos
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Department of Entomology & Agricultural Entomology, Laboratory of Agricultural Entomology, Greece
| | - Pelagia Anastasiadou
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Department of Pesticides Control and Phytopharmacy, Laboratory of Pesticides' Toxicology, 8 St. Delta Street, Kifissia, 14561 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Milonas
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Department of Entomology & Agricultural Entomology, Biological Control Laboratory, Greece
| | - Kyriaki Machera
- Benaki Phytopathological Institute, Department of Pesticides Control and Phytopharmacy, Laboratory of Pesticides' Toxicology, 8 St. Delta Street, Kifissia, 14561 Athens, Greece.
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Rasmussen C, Dupont YL, Madsen HB, Bogusch P, Goulson D, Herbertsson L, Maia KP, Nielsen A, Olesen JM, Potts SG, Roberts SPM, Sydenham MAK, Kryger P. Evaluating competition for forage plants between honey bees and wild bees in Denmark. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250056. [PMID: 33909661 PMCID: PMC8081269 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A recurrent concern in nature conservation is the potential competition for forage plants between wild bees and managed honey bees. Specifically, that the highly sophisticated system of recruitment and large perennial colonies of honey bees quickly exhaust forage resources leading to the local extirpation of wild bees. However, different species of bees show different preferences for forage plants. We here summarize known forage plants for honey bees and wild bee species at national scale in Denmark. Our focus is on floral resources shared by honey bees and wild bees, with an emphasis on both threatened wild bee species and foraging specialist species. Across all 292 known bee species from Denmark, a total of 410 plant genera were recorded as forage plants. These included 294 plant genera visited by honey bees and 292 plant genera visited by different species of wild bees. Honey bees and wild bees share 176 plant genera in Denmark. Comparing the pairwise niche overlap for individual bee species, no significant relationship was found between their overlap and forage specialization or conservation status. Network analysis of the bee-plant interactions placed honey bees aside from most other bee species, specifically the module containing the honey bee had fewer links to any other modules, while the remaining modules were more highly inter-connected. Despite the lack of predictive relationship from the pairwise niche overlap, data for individual species could be summarized. Consequently, we have identified a set of operational parameters that, based on a high foraging overlap (>70%) and unfavorable conservation status (Vulnerable+Endangered+Critically Endangered), can guide both conservation actions and land management decisions in proximity to known or suspected populations of these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claus Rasmussen
- Department of Agroecology, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark
- * E-mail:
| | - Yoko L. Dupont
- Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Kalø, Denmark
| | | | - Petr Bogusch
- Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Dave Goulson
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Lina Herbertsson
- Centre for Environmental and Climate Research, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Kate Pereira Maia
- Institute of Biosciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anders Nielsen
- Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Ås, Norway and Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jens M. Olesen
- Department of Biology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Simon G. Potts
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart P. M. Roberts
- Centre for Agri-Environmental Research, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | | | - Per Kryger
- Department of Agroecology, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Aarhus University, Slagelse, Denmark
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Hinshaw C, Evans KC, Rosa C, López-Uribe MM. The Role of Pathogen Dynamics and Immune Gene Expression in the Survival of Feral Honey Bees. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2020.594263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies of the ecoimmunology of feral organisms can provide valuable insight into how host–pathogen dynamics change as organisms transition from human-managed conditions back into the wild. Honey bees (Apis mellifera Linnaeus) offer an ideal system to investigate these questions as colonies of these social insects often escape management and establish in the wild. While managed honey bee colonies have low probability of survival in the absence of disease treatments, feral colonies commonly survive in the wild, where pathogen pressures are expected to be higher due to the absence of disease treatments. Here, we investigate the role of pathogen infections [Deformed wing virus (DWV), Black queen cell virus (BQCV), and Nosema ceranae] and immune gene expression (defensin-1, hymenoptaecin, pgrp-lc, pgrp-s2, argonaute-2, vago) in the survival of feral and managed honey bee colonies. We surveyed a total of 25 pairs of feral and managed colonies over a 2-year period (2017–2018), recorded overwintering survival, and measured pathogen levels and immune gene expression using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Our results showed that feral colonies had higher levels of DWV but it was variable over time compared to managed colonies. Higher pathogen levels were associated with increased immune gene expression, with feral colonies showing higher expression in five out of the six examined immune genes for at least one sampling period. Further analysis revealed that differential expression of the genes hymenoptaecin and vago increased the odds of overwintering survival in managed and feral colonies. Our results revealed that feral colonies express immune genes at higher levels in response to high pathogen burdens, providing evidence for the role of feralization in altering pathogen landscapes and host immune responses.
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Riffell JA. The neuroecology of insect-plant interactions: the importance of physiological state and sensory integration. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2020; 42:118-124. [PMID: 33127509 PMCID: PMC7749044 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Natural behaviorally important stimuli are combinations of cues that are integrated by the nervous system to elicit behavior. Nonetheless, these cues dynamically change in time and space. In turn, the animal's internal state can cause changes in the encoding and representation of these stimuli. Despite abundant behavioral examples, links between the neural bases of sensory integration and the internal state-dependency of these responses remains an active study area. Recent studies in different insect models have provided new insights into how plasticity and the insect's internal state may influence odor representation. These studies show that complex stimuli are represented in unique percepts that are different from their sensory channels and that the representations may be modulated by physiological state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Riffell
- University of Washington, Department of Biology, Seattle, WA 98195-1800, United States.
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Ricigliano VA. Microalgae as a promising and sustainable nutrition source for managed honey bees. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 104:e21658. [PMID: 31976574 DOI: 10.1002/arch.21658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Managed honey bee colony losses are attributed to a number of interacting stressors, but many lines of evidence point to malnutrition as a primary factor. Commercial beekeepers have become increasingly reliant on artificial pollen substitute diets to nourish colonies during periods of forage scarcity and to bolster colony size before pollination services. These artificial diets may be deficient in essential macronutrients (proteins, lipids, prebiotic fibers), micronutrients (vitamins, minerals), and antioxidants. Therefore, improving the efficacy of pollen substitutes can be considered vital to modern beekeeping. Microalgae are prolific sources of plant-based nutrition with many species exhibiting biochemical profiles that are comparable to natural pollen. This emerging feed source has been employed in a variety of organisms, including limited applications in honey bees. Herein, I introduce the nutritional value and functional properties of microalgae, extrapolating to central aspects of honey bee physiology and health. To conclude, I discuss the potential of microalgae-based feeds to sustainably provision managed colonies on an agricultural scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent A Ricigliano
- Honey Bee Breeding, Genetics and Physiology Research, USDA-ARS, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
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