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Domingues CEC, Šimenc L, Toplak I, de Graaf DC, De Smet L, Verbeke W, Peelman L, Ansaloni LS, Gregorc A. Eggs sampling as an effective tool for identifying the incidence of viruses in honey bees involved in artificial queen rearing. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9612. [PMID: 38671077 PMCID: PMC11053070 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60135-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The Carniolan honey bee (Apis mellifera carnica) plays an essential role in crop pollination, environment diversity, and the production of honey bee products. However, the health of individual honey bees and their colonies is under pressure due to multiple stressors, including viruses as a significant threat to bees. Monitoring various virus infections could be a crucial selection tool during queen rearing. In the present study, samples from all developmental stages (eggs, larvae, pupae, and queens) were screened for the incidence of seven viruses during queen rearing in Slovenia. The screening of a total of 108 samples from five queen breeders was performed by the RT-qPCR assays. The results showed that the highest incidence was observed for black queen cell virus (BQCV), Lake Sinai virus 3 (LSV3), deformed wing virus B (DWV-B), and sacbrood virus (SBV). The highest viral load was detected in queens (6.07 log10 copies/queen) and larvae (5.50 log10 copies/larva) for BQCV, followed by SBV in larvae (5.47 log10 copies/larva). When comparing all the honey bee developmental stages, the eggs exhibited general screening for virus incidence and load in queen mother colonies. The results suggest that analyzing eggs is a good indicator of resilience to virus infection during queen development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio E C Domingues
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor, Pivola 10, 2311, Hoče, Slovenia.
| | - Laura Šimenc
- Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ivan Toplak
- Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wim Verbeke
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Leticia S Ansaloni
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor, Pivola 10, 2311, Hoče, Slovenia
| | - Aleš Gregorc
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor, Pivola 10, 2311, Hoče, Slovenia
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Lefebre R, Broeckx BJG, De Smet L, Peelman L, de Graaf DC. Population-wide modelling reveals prospects of marker-assisted selection for parasitic mite resistance in honey bees. Sci Rep 2024; 14:7866. [PMID: 38570723 PMCID: PMC10991324 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58596-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2019, a joint eight-variant model was published in which eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in seven Apis mellifera genes were associated with Varroa destructor drone brood resistance (DBR, i.e. mite non-reproduction in drone brood). As this model was derived from only one Darwinian Black Bee Box colony, it could not directly be applied on a population-overarching scale in the northern part of Belgium (Flanders), where beekeepers prefer the carnica subspecies. To determine whether these eight SNPs remained associated with the DBR trait on a Flemish colony-broad scope, we performed population-wide modelling through sampling of various A. mellifera carnica colonies, DBR scoring of Varroa-infested drone brood and variant genotyping. Novel eight-variant modelling was performed and the classification performance of the eight SNPs was evaluated. Besides, we built a reduced three-variant model retaining only three genetic variants and found that this model classified 76% of the phenotyped drones correctly. To examine the spread of beneficial alleles and predict the DBR probability distribution in Flanders, we determined the allelic frequencies of the three variants in 292 A. mellifera carnica queens. As such, this research reveals prospects of marker-assisted selection for Varroa drone brood resistance in honeybees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regis Lefebre
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology (L-MEB), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Bart J G Broeckx
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology (L-MEB), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology (L-MEB), Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Bencsik M, McVeigh A, Claeys Bouuaert D, Capela N, Penny F, Newton MI, Sousa JP, de Graaf DC. Quantitative assessments of honeybee colony's response to an artificial vibrational pulse resulting in non-invasive measurements of colony's overall mobility and restfulness. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3827. [PMID: 38360892 PMCID: PMC10869359 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54107-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In this work we aim to provide a quantitative method allowing the probing of the physiological status of honeybee colonies by providing them with a gentle, short, external artificial vibrational shockwave, and recording their response. The knock is provided by an external electromagnetic shaker attached to the outer wall of a hive, driven by a computer with a 0.1 s long, monochromatic vibration at 340Hz set to an amplitude that occasionally yields a mild response from the bees, recorded by an accelerometer placed in the middle of the central frame of the colony. To avoid habituation, the stimulus is supplied at randomised times, approximately every hour. The method is pioneered with a pilot study on a single colony hosted indoors, then extended onto eight outdoors colonies. The results show that we can quantitatively sense the colony's overall mobility, independently from another physiological aspect, which is phenomenologically explored. Using this, a colony that is queenless is easily discriminated from the others.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam McVeigh
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | | | - Nuno Capela
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, Associated Laboratory TERRA, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | | | - José Paulo Sousa
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, Associated Laboratory TERRA, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Bayissa M, Lauwers L, Mitiku F, de Graaf DC, Verbeke W. System Mapping of the Production and Value Chain to Explore Beekeeping Potential in Southwest Ethiopia. Insects 2024; 15:106. [PMID: 38392525 PMCID: PMC10889247 DOI: 10.3390/insects15020106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Ethiopia has a high potential for the production of honey and other apiary products due to its ideal agroecology. This potential is, however, not yet well utilized due to weak production and valorization systems. The study analyzed beekeeping systems and their honey value chain to detect the barriers and to explore ways to better exploit the existing potential. Descriptive statistics, a SWOT and PESTEL matrix, and system mapping were utilized for analysis. Ethiopian beekeeping is still dominated by traditional production systems, followed by modern and transitional systems, differing in types of beehives and the average amount of honey yield. The combined SWOT-PESTEL analysis revealed challenges like a limited supply and high cost of modern beehives, shortage of credit, absence of a honey marketing legal framework, pest and predator attacks, absconding, and uncontrolled application of agrochemicals. Opportunities include the globally increasing demand for honey, availability of good investment policy, conducive agroecology, and support from NGOs. The less productive techniques of smallholder beekeepers' crude honey production for local beverage making affected the good use of the potential and minimized its contribution to the local and national economy. On the contrary, strengthening private investors and cooperatives towards the production of fully and semi-processed honey impacted the utilization of the potential positively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mulubrihan Bayissa
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Jimma University, Jimma P.O. Box 307, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Ludwig Lauwers
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Fikadu Mitiku
- Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Jimma University, Jimma P.O. Box 307, Oromia, Ethiopia
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Wim Verbeke
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium
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van Dooremalen C, Ulgezen ZN, Dall’Olio R, Godeau U, Duan X, Sousa JP, Schäfer MO, Beaurepaire A, van Gennip P, Schoonman M, Flener C, Matthijs S, Claeys Boúúaert D, Verbeke W, Freshley D, Valkenburg DJ, van den Bosch T, Schaafsma F, Peters J, Xu M, Le Conte Y, Alaux C, Dalmon A, Paxton RJ, Tehel A, Streicher T, Dezmirean DS, Giurgiu AI, Topping CJ, Williams JH, Capela N, Lopes S, Alves F, Alves J, Bica J, Simões S, Alves da Silva A, Castro S, Loureiro J, Horčičková E, Bencsik M, McVeigh A, Kumar T, Moro A, van Delden A, Ziółkowska E, Filipiak M, Mikołajczyk Ł, Leufgen K, De Smet L, de Graaf DC. Bridging the Gap between Field Experiments and Machine Learning: The EC H2020 B-GOOD Project as a Case Study towards Automated Predictive Health Monitoring of Honey Bee Colonies. Insects 2024; 15:76. [PMID: 38276825 PMCID: PMC10816039 DOI: 10.3390/insects15010076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Honey bee colonies have great societal and economic importance. The main challenge that beekeepers face is keeping bee colonies healthy under ever-changing environmental conditions. In the past two decades, beekeepers that manage colonies of Western honey bees (Apis mellifera) have become increasingly concerned by the presence of parasites and pathogens affecting the bees, the reduction in pollen and nectar availability, and the colonies' exposure to pesticides, among others. Hence, beekeepers need to know the health condition of their colonies and how to keep them alive and thriving, which creates a need for a new holistic data collection method to harmonize the flow of information from various sources that can be linked at the colony level for different health determinants, such as bee colony, environmental, socioeconomic, and genetic statuses. For this purpose, we have developed and implemented the B-GOOD (Giving Beekeeping Guidance by computational-assisted Decision Making) project as a case study to categorize the colony's health condition and find a Health Status Index (HSI). Using a 3-tier setup guided by work plans and standardized protocols, we have collected data from inside the colonies (amount of brood, disease load, honey harvest, etc.) and from their environment (floral resource availability). Most of the project's data was automatically collected by the BEEP Base Sensor System. This continuous stream of data served as the basis to determine and validate an algorithm to calculate the HSI using machine learning. In this article, we share our insights on this holistic methodology and also highlight the importance of using a standardized data language to increase the compatibility between different current and future studies. We argue that the combined management of big data will be an essential building block in the development of targeted guidance for beekeepers and for the future of sustainable beekeeping.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zeynep N. Ulgezen
- Wageningen University & Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ugoline Godeau
- Institut National de la Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France
| | | | - José Paulo Sousa
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marc O. Schäfer
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Bundesforschunginstitut für Tiergesundheit, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | | | - Pim van Gennip
- Stichting BEEP, 3972 LK Driebergen-Rijsenburg, The Netherlands
| | | | - Claude Flener
- Suomen Mehiläishoitajain Liitto, 00130 Helsinki, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Famke Schaafsma
- Wageningen University & Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Peters
- Wageningen University & Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mang Xu
- Wageningen University & Research, 6708 PB Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yves Le Conte
- Institut National de la Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France
| | - Cedric Alaux
- Institut National de la Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France
| | - Anne Dalmon
- Institut National de la Recherche pour l’Agriculture, l’Alimentation et l’Environnement, 84914 Avignon, France
| | - Robert J. Paxton
- Martin-Luther-Universitaet Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Anja Tehel
- Martin-Luther-Universitaet Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Tabea Streicher
- Martin-Luther-Universitaet Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle, Germany
| | - Daniel S. Dezmirean
- Universitatea de Stiinte Agricole si Medicina Veterinara Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru I. Giurgiu
- Universitatea de Stiinte Agricole si Medicina Veterinara Cluj Napoca, 400372 Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | | | | | - Nuno Capela
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sara Lopes
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Fátima Alves
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Alves
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Bica
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Simões
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - António Alves da Silva
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Castro
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Loureiro
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Eva Horčičková
- Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, TERRA Associated Laboratory, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Martin Bencsik
- The Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Adam McVeigh
- The Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Tarun Kumar
- The Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK
| | - Arrigo Moro
- Institute of Bee Health, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
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Doublet V, Oddie MAY, Mondet F, Forsgren E, Dahle B, Furuseth-Hansen E, Williams GR, De Smet L, Natsopoulou ME, Murray TE, Semberg E, Yañez O, de Graaf DC, Le Conte Y, Neumann P, Rimstad E, Paxton RJ, de Miranda JR. Shift in virus composition in honeybees ( Apis mellifera) following worldwide invasion by the parasitic mite and virus vector Varroa destructor. R Soc Open Sci 2024; 11:231529. [PMID: 38204792 PMCID: PMC10776227 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.231529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Invasive vectors can induce dramatic changes in disease epidemiology. While viral emergence following geographical range expansion of a vector is well known, the influence a vector can have at the level of the host's pathobiome is less well understood. Taking advantage of the formerly heterogeneous spatial distribution of the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor that acts as potent virus vector among honeybees Apis mellifera, we investigated the impact of its recent global spread on the viral community of honeybees in a retrospective study of historical samples. We hypothesized that the vector has had an effect on the epidemiology of several bee viruses, potentially altering their transmissibility and/or virulence, and consequently their prevalence, abundance, or both. To test this, we quantified the prevalence and loads of 14 viruses from honeybee samples collected in mite-free and mite-infested populations in four independent geographical regions. The presence of the mite dramatically increased the prevalence and load of deformed wing virus, a cause of unsustainably high colony losses. In addition, several other viruses became more prevalent or were found at higher load in mite-infested areas, including viruses not known to be actively varroa-transmitted, but which may increase opportunistically in varroa-parasitized bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Doublet
- Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Institute for Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale) 061200, Germany
| | - Melissa A. Y. Oddie
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala 750 07, Sweden
- Norwegian Beekeepers Association, Kløfta 2040, Norway
| | - Fanny Mondet
- INRAE, UR 406 Abeilles et Environnement, Avignon 84914, France
| | - Eva Forsgren
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala 750 07, Sweden
| | - Bjørn Dahle
- Norwegian Beekeepers Association, Kløfta 2040, Norway
| | - Elisabeth Furuseth-Hansen
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås 1432, Norway
| | - Geoffrey R. Williams
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern 3097, Switzerland
- Entomology & Plant Pathology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36832, USA
| | - Lina De Smet
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Myrsini E. Natsopoulou
- Institute for Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale) 061200, Germany
| | - Tomás E. Murray
- Institute for Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale) 061200, Germany
| | - Emilia Semberg
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala 750 07, Sweden
| | - Orlando Yañez
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern 3097, Switzerland
| | - Dirk C. de Graaf
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Yves Le Conte
- INRAE, UR 406 Abeilles et Environnement, Avignon 84914, France
| | - Peter Neumann
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern 3097, Switzerland
| | - Espen Rimstad
- Department of Food Safety and Infection Biology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås 1432, Norway
| | - Robert J. Paxton
- Institute for Biology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale) 061200, Germany
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, 04103, Germany
| | - Joachim R. de Miranda
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala 750 07, Sweden
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Hettiarachchi A, Cnockaert M, Joossens M, Laureys D, De Clippeleer J, Vereecken NJ, Michez D, Smagghe G, de Graaf DC, Vandamme P. Convivina is a specialised core gut symbiont of the invasive hornet Vespa velutina. Insect Mol Biol 2023; 32:510-527. [PMID: 37204105 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
We provide a culturomics analysis of the cultivable bacterial communities of the crop, midgut and hindgut compartments, as well as the ovaries, of the invasive insect Vespa velutina, along with a cultivation-independent analysis of samples of the same nest through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. The Vespa velutina bacterial symbiont community was dominated by the genera Convivina, Fructobacillus, Lactiplantibacillus, Lactococcus, Sphingomonas and Spiroplasma. Lactococcus lactis and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum represented generalist core lactic acid bacteria (LAB) symbionts, while Convivina species and Fructobacillus fructosus represented highly specialised core LAB symbionts with strongly reduced genome sizes. Sphingomonas and Spiroplasma were the only non-LAB core symbionts but were not isolated. Convivina bacteria were particularly enriched in the hornet crop and included Convivina intestini, a species adapted towards amino acid metabolism, and Convivina praedatoris sp. nov. which was adapted towards carbohydrate metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Hettiarachchi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Margo Cnockaert
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marie Joossens
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - David Laureys
- Innovation Centre for Brewing & Fermentation, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jessika De Clippeleer
- Innovation Centre for Brewing & Fermentation, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Denis Michez
- Laboratory of Zoology, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Peter Vandamme
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Van Espen M, Williams JH, Alves F, Hung Y, de Graaf DC, Verbeke W. Beekeeping in Europe facing climate change: A mixed methods study on perceived impacts and the need to adapt according to stakeholders and beekeepers. Sci Total Environ 2023; 888:164255. [PMID: 37196971 PMCID: PMC10280316 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.164255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The beekeeping sector is suffering from the detrimental effects of climate change, both directly and indirectly. Despite numerous studies conducted on this subject, large-scale research incorporating stakeholders' and beekeepers' perspectives has remained elusive. This study aims to bridge this gap by assessing the extent to which stakeholders involved in the European beekeeping sector and European beekeepers perceive and experience the impacts of climate change on their operations, and whether they had to adapt their practices accordingly. To this end, a mixed-methods study including in-depth stakeholder interviews (n = 41) and a pan-European beekeeper survey (n = 844) was completed within the frame of the EU-funded H2020-project B-GOOD. The development of the beekeeper survey was informed by insights from literature and the stakeholder interviews. The results highlighted significant regional disparities in the perceived impacts of climate change, with beekeepers in Southern European regions expressing more negative outlooks, while Northern European beekeepers reported more favourable experiences. Furthermore, survey analysis revealed beekeepers who were classified as 'heavily impacted' by climate change. These beekeepers reported lower average honey yields, higher colony winter loss rates and a stronger perceived contribution of honey bees to pollination and biodiversity, underscoring climate change's detrimental impacts on the beekeeping sector. Multinomial logistic regression revealed determinants of the likelihood of beekeepers being classified as 'heavily impacted' by climate change. This analysis indicates that Southern European beekeepers experienced a 10-fold likelihood of being classified as heavily impacted by climate change compared to Northern European beekeepers. Other significant factors distinguishing 'winners' and 'losers' were self-reported level of professionalism as a beekeeper (ranging from pure hobbyist to fully professional, Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.31), number of years active in beekeeping (OR = 1.02), availability of floral resources throughout the bee season (OR = 0.78), beehives located in a forested environment (OR = 1.34), and the presence of local policy measures addressing climate change-related challenges (OR = 0.76).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Van Espen
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - James H Williams
- Aarhus University, Department of Ecoscience (ECOS), C.F. Møllers Allé 4-8, 8000 Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Fátima Alves
- University of Coimbra, Centre for Functional Ecology, Science for People and the Planet, TERRA Associate Laboratory, Calçada Martins de Freitas, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal; Universidade Aberta, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Yung Hung
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Ghent University, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wim Verbeke
- Ghent University, Department of Agricultural Economics, Coupure links 653, B-9000 Gent, Belgium.
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9
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Gebremedhn H, Claeys Bouuaert D, Asperges M, Amssalu B, De Smet L, de Graaf DC. Expression of Molecular Markers of Resilience against Varroa destructor and Bee Viruses in Ethiopian Honey Bees ( Apis mellifera simensis) Focussing on Olfactory Sensing and the RNA Interference Machinery. Insects 2023; 14:insects14050436. [PMID: 37233064 DOI: 10.3390/insects14050436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Varroa destructor mites and the viruses it vectors are two major factors leading to high losses of honey bees (Apis mellifera) colonies worldwide. However, honey bees in some African countries show resilience to varroa infestation and/or virus infections, although little is known about the mechanisms underlying this resilience. In this study, we investigated the expression profiles of some key molecular markers involved in olfactory sensing and RNA interference, as these processes may contribute to the bees' resilience to varroa infestation and virus infection, respectively. We found significantly higher gene expression of the odorant binding protein, OBP14, in the antennae of Ethiopian bees compared to Belgian bees. This result suggests the potential of OBP14 as a molecular marker of resilience to mite infestation. Scanning electron microscopy showed no significant differences in the antennal sensilla occurrence and distribution, suggesting that resilience arises from molecular processes rather than morphological adaptations. In addition, seven RNAi genes were upregulated in the Ethiopian honey bees and three of them-Dicer-Drosha, Argonaute 2, and TRBP2-were positively correlated with the viral load. We can conclude that the antiviral immune response was triggered when bees were experiencing severe viral infection and that this might contribute to the bees' resilience to viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haftom Gebremedhn
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
- Tigray Agricultural Research Institute, Mekelle P.O. Box 492, Ethiopia
| | - David Claeys Bouuaert
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michel Asperges
- Centrum Voor Milieukunde, University of Hasselt, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | | | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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10
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de Miranda JR, Brettell LE, Chejanovsky N, Childers AK, Dalmon A, Deboutte W, de Graaf DC, Doublet V, Gebremedhn H, Genersch E, Gisder S, Granberg F, Haddad NJ, Kaden R, Manley R, Matthijnssens J, Meeus I, Migdadi H, Milbrath MO, Mondet F, Remnant EJ, Roberts JMK, Ryabov EV, Sela N, Smagghe G, Somanathan H, Wilfert L, Wright ON, Martin SJ, Ball BV. Cold case: The disappearance of Egypt bee virus, a fourth distinct master strain of deformed wing virus linked to honeybee mortality in 1970's Egypt. Virol J 2022; 19:12. [PMID: 35033134 PMCID: PMC8760790 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-022-01740-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In 1977, a sample of diseased adult honeybees (Apis mellifera) from Egypt was found to contain large amounts of a previously unknown virus, Egypt bee virus, which was subsequently shown to be serologically related to deformed wing virus (DWV). By sequencing the original isolate, we demonstrate that Egypt bee virus is in fact a fourth unique, major variant of DWV (DWV-D): more closely related to DWV-C than to either DWV-A or DWV-B. DWV-A and DWV-B are the most common DWV variants worldwide due to their close relationship and transmission by Varroa destructor. However, we could not find any trace of DWV-D in several hundred RNA sequencing libraries from a worldwide selection of honeybee, varroa and bumblebee samples. This means that DWV-D has either become extinct, been replaced by other DWV variants better adapted to varroa-mediated transmission, or persists only in a narrow geographic or host range, isolated from common bee and beekeeping trade routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim R de Miranda
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 750-07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Laura E Brettell
- Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Renrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.,School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, UK.,Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Nor Chejanovsky
- Institute of Plant Protection, The Volcani Center, PO Box 15159, 7528809, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| | - Anna K Childers
- Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, USDA, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Anne Dalmon
- Abeilles et Environnement, INRAE, 84914, Avignon, France
| | - Ward Deboutte
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory for Clinical and Epidemiological Virology, University of Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.,Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Stübeweg 51, 79108, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vincent Doublet
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK.,Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Haftom Gebremedhn
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.,Tigray Agricultural Research Institute, P.O. Box 492, Mekelle, Ethiopia
| | - Elke Genersch
- Institut Für Mikrobiologie Und Tierseuchen, Fachbereich Veterinärmedizin, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bee Diseases, Institute for Bee Research, Hohen Neuendorf, Germany
| | - Sebastian Gisder
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Bee Diseases, Institute for Bee Research, Hohen Neuendorf, Germany
| | - Fredrik Granberg
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 750-07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nizar J Haddad
- Bee Research Department, National Agricultural Research Center, Baq'a, Jordan
| | - Rene Kaden
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 750-07, Uppsala, Sweden.,Clinical Microbiology, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, 753 09, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Robyn Manley
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Jelle Matthijnssens
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, Rega Institute, Laboratory for Clinical and Epidemiological Virology, University of Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ivan Meeus
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hussein Migdadi
- Bee Research Department, National Agricultural Research Center, Baq'a, Jordan
| | - Meghan O Milbrath
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 750-07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fanny Mondet
- Abeilles et Environnement, INRAE, 84914, Avignon, France
| | - Emily J Remnant
- Behaviour, Ecology and Evolution (BEE) Lab, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2006, Australia
| | - John M K Roberts
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Canberra, 2601, Australia
| | - Eugene V Ryabov
- Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, USDA, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Noa Sela
- Institute of Plant Protection, The Volcani Center, PO Box 15159, 7528809, Rishon Lezion, Israel
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hema Somanathan
- School of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695551, India
| | - Lena Wilfert
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK.,Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, University of Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Owen N Wright
- Centre for Research in Animal Behaviour, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4QG, UK
| | - Stephen J Martin
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Salford, Manchester, M5 4WT, UK.,Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ, UK
| | - Brenda V Ball
- Rothamsted Research, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2JQ, UK
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11
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El Agrebi N, Steinhauer N, Tosi S, Leinartz L, de Graaf DC, Saegerman C. Risk and protective indicators of beekeeping management practices. Sci Total Environ 2021; 799:149381. [PMID: 34358747 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Explaining the reasons for the high honey bee (Apis mellifera) colony loss rate in recent years has become a top global research priority in apicultural and agricultural sciences. Although there are indications of the role played by beekeeping management practices on honey bee health, very little information is currently available. Our study aimed to characterize the beekeeping management practices carried out in Belgium, and to determine the relationship between beekeeping management practices and colony losses. Variables obtained from face-to-face questioning of a representative randomized and stratified sample of Belgian beekeepers (n = 186) were integrated into a logistic regression model (univariate and multivariate) and correlated to the declared colony loss rates to identify risk and protective indicators. We used a classification tree analysis to validate the results. We present evidence of a relationship between poor beekeeping management practices and colony losses. The main factors protecting honey bee colonies are the aptitude of the beekeeper to change his management practices, the hive type, the equipment origin and hygiene, wintering in proper conditions (the use of divider boards, i.e. board blocks or space fillers off part of the hive body), the colony strength estimation before wintering, winter monitoring, and last but not least, appropriate integrated pest management. Proper estimation of the Varroa infestation level should be performed prior to treatment. The consequences of poor beekeeping practices on honey bee health can be addressed by proper training of beekeepers. An online tool was developed and published for beekeepers allowing them to evaluate the effect of their management practices on colony health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noëmie El Agrebi
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A, B42, 4000 Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
| | - Nathalie Steinhauer
- Department of Entomology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Simone Tosi
- Department of Agricultural, Forest, and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Via Verdi 8, 10124 Torino, Italy
| | - Laurent Leinartz
- Teaching Support Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 5C-5D, B41, 4000 Liège, Sart-Tilman, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Faculty of Sciences, Honeybee Valley, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S33, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A, B42, 4000 Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium.
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12
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Vlogiannitis S, Jonckheere W, Laget D, de Graaf DC, Vontas J, Van Leeuwen T. Pyrethroid target-site resistance mutations in populations of the honey bee parasite Varroa destructor (Acari: Varroidae) from Flanders, Belgium. Exp Appl Acarol 2021; 85:205-221. [PMID: 34676469 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-021-00665-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The honey bee ectoparasite Varroa destructor is considered the major threat to apiculture, as untreated colonies of Apis mellifera usually collapse within a few years. In order to control this mite, many beekeepers rely on a limited number of approved synthetic acaricides, including the pyrethroids tau-fluvalinate and flumethrin. Due to the intensive use of these products, resistance is now commonplace in many beekeeping regions across the world. In the present study, the occurrence of amino acid substitutions at residue L925 of the voltage-gate sodium channel-the pyrethroid target site-was studied in Varroa populations collected throughout Flanders, Belgium. Dose-response bioassays supported the involvement of the frequently observed L925V substitution in flumethrin resistance, resulting in a 12.64-fold increase of the LC50 in a Varroa population mostly consisting of homozygous 925 V/V mites. With the presence of L925 substitutions in about four out of 10 screened apiaries, the use of pyrethroid-based varroacides in Flanders, including the recently released PolyVar® Yellow, should be carefully considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spyridon Vlogiannitis
- Laboratory of Pesticide Science, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos Street, 11855, Athens, Greece
| | - Wim Jonckheere
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dries Laget
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - John Vontas
- Laboratory of Pesticide Science, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos Street, 11855, Athens, Greece
- Institute of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, Foundation for Research & Technology, Hellas, 100 N. Plastira Street, 700 13, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Thomas Van Leeuwen
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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13
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Wilmart O, Legrève A, Scippo ML, Reybroeck W, Urbain B, de Graaf DC, Spanoghe P, Delahaut P, Saegerman C. Honey bee exposure scenarios to selected residues through contaminated beeswax. Sci Total Environ 2021; 772:145533. [PMID: 33770874 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.145533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Twenty-two pesticides and veterinary drugs of which residues were detected in beeswax in Europe were selected according to different criteria. The risk to honey bee health posed by the presence of these residues in wax was assessed based on three exposure scenarios. The first one corresponds to the exposure of larvae following their close contact with wax constituting the cells in which they develop. The second one corresponds to the exposure of larvae following consumption of the larval food that was contaminated from contact with contaminated wax. The third one corresponds to the exposure of adult honey bees following wax chewing when building cells and based on a theoretical worst-case scenario (= intake of contaminants from wax). Following these three scenarios, maximum concentrations which should not be exceeded in beeswax in order to protect honey bee health were calculated for each selected substance. Based on these values, provisional action limits were proposed. Beeswax exceeding these limits should not be put on the market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Wilmart
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), Directorate Control Policy, Staff Direction for Risk Assessment, 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Anne Legrève
- Université catholique de Louvain (UCL), Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Earth & Life Institute (ELI), 2 bte L7.05.03 Croix du Sud, B-1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Marie-Louise Scippo
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium; University of Liège (ULiège), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Food Sciences - Laboratory of Food Analysis, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animals & Health (FARAH) Center, 10 Avenue de Cureghem, B43bis, B-4000 Liège, Sart-Tilman, Belgium
| | - Wim Reybroeck
- Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Technology and Food Science Unit, 370 Brusselsesteenweg, B-9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - Bruno Urbain
- Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAMHP), Eurostation II, 40/40 Place Victor Horta, B-1060 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Ghent University (UGent), Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, 281 S2 Krijgslaan, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Spanoghe
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium; Ghent University (UGent), Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Plants and Crops, 653 Coupure links, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Philippe Delahaut
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium; Centre d'Economie Rurale (CER), Département Santé, 8 Rue de la Science, B-6900 Aye, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium; University of Liège (ULiège), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk analysis applied to Veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Quartier Vallée 2, 7A Avenue de Cureghem, B42, B-4000 Liège, Sart-Tilman, Belgium
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14
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Bouuaert DC, De Smet L, de Graaf DC. Breeding for Virus Resistance and Its Effects on Deformed Wing Virus Infection Patterns in Honey Bee Queens. Viruses 2021; 13:v13061074. [PMID: 34199957 PMCID: PMC8228329 DOI: 10.3390/v13061074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses, and in particular the deformed wing virus (DWV), are considered as one of the main antagonists of honey bee health. The 'suppressed in ovo virus infection' trait (SOV) described for the first time that control of a virus infection can be achieved from genetically inherited traits and that the virus state of the eggs is indicative for this. This research aims to explore the effect of the SOV trait on DWV infections in queens descending from both SOV-positive (QDS+) and SOV-negative (QDS-) queens. Twenty QDS+ and QDS- were reared from each time four queens in the same starter-finisher colony. From each queen the head, thorax, ovaries, spermatheca, guts and eviscerated abdomen were dissected and screened for the presence of the DWV-A and DWV-B genotype using qRT-PCR. Queens descending from SOV-positive queens showed significant lower infection loads for DWV-A and DWV-B as well as a lower number of infected tissues for DWV-A. Surprisingly, differences were less expressed in the reproductive tissues, the ovaries and spermatheca. These results confirm that selection on the SOV trait is associated with increased virus resistance across viral genotypes and that this selection drives DWV towards an increased tissue specificity for the reproductive tissues. Further research is needed to explore the mechanisms underlying the interaction between the antiviral response and DWV.
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15
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Claeys Boúúaert D, Van Poucke M, De Smet L, Verbeke W, de Graaf DC, Peelman L. qPCR assays with dual-labeled probes for genotyping honey bee variants associated with varroa resistance. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:179. [PMID: 33931072 PMCID: PMC8086294 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-02886-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The varroa mite is one of the main causes of honey bee mortality. An important mechanism by which honey bees increase their resistance against this mite is the expression of suppressed mite reproduction. This trait describes the physiological inability of mites to produce viable offspring and was found associated with eight genomic variants in previous research. Results This paper presents the development and validation of high-throughput qPCR assays with dual-labeled probes for discriminating these eight single-nucleotide variants. Amplicon sequences used for assay validation revealed additional variants in the primer/probe binding sites in four out of the eight assays. As for two of these the additional variants interfered with the genotyping outcome supplementary primers and/or probes were developed. Inclusion of these primers and probes in the assay mixes allowed for the correct genotyping of all eight variants of interest within our bee population. Conclusion These outcomes underline the importance of checking for interfering variants in designing qPCR assays. Ultimately, the availability of this assay allows genotyping for the suppressed mite reproduction trait and paves the way for marker assisted selection in breeding programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Claeys Boúúaert
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Mario Van Poucke
- Animal Genetics Laboratory, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, B-9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wim Verbeke
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Peelman
- Animal Genetics Laboratory, Ghent University, Heidestraat 19, B-9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
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16
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Meeus I, Parmentier L, Pisman M, de Graaf DC, Smagghe G. Reduced nest development of reared Bombus terrestris within apiary dense human-modified landscapes. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3755. [PMID: 33580131 PMCID: PMC7881143 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82540-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild bees are in decline on a local to global scale. The presence of managed honey bees can lead to competition for resources with wild bee species, which has not been investigated so far for human-modified landscapes. In this study we assess if managed honey bee hive density influence nest development (biomass) of bumble bees, an important trait affecting fitness. We hypothesize that domesticated honey bees can negatively affect Bombus terrestris nest development in human-modified landscapes. In Flanders, Belgium, where such landscapes are dominantly present, we selected 11 locations with landscape metrics ranging from urban to agricultural. The bee hive locations were mapped and each location contained one apiary dense (AD) and one apiary sparse (AS) study site (mean density of 7.6 ± 5.7 managed honey bee hives per km2 in AD sites). We assessed the effect of apiary density on the reproduction of reared B. terrestris nests. Reared B. terrestris nests had more biomass increase over 8 weeks in apiary sparse (AS) sites compared to nests located in apiary dense (AD) sites. This effect was mainly visible in urban locations, where nest in AS sites have 99.25 ± 60.99 g more biomass increase compared to nest in urban AD sites. Additionally, we found that managed bumble bee nests had higher biomass increase in urban locations. We conclude that the density of bee hives is a factor to consider in regard to interspecific competition between domesticated honey bees and bumble bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Meeus
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Laurian Parmentier
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Matti Pisman
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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17
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El Agrebi N, Steinhauer N, Renault V, de Graaf DC, Saegerman C. Beekeepers perception of risks affecting colony loss: A pilot survey. Transbound Emerg Dis 2021; 69:579-590. [PMID: 33544964 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Understanding amateur beekeepers' perception of risks affecting bee health and mortality is essential to analyse the reasons for adopting or rejecting good management practices. A perception survey on how beekeepers perceive and manage factors related to climate change, Varroa infestation, management practices, and pesticide exposure was designed and launched online. This unpreceded sociological survey involved 355 beekeepers spread all over Belgium. A two-sample t test with unequal variances comparing beekeepers with colony loss rates below or exceeding the acceptable level, that is <10% and ≥10%, indicates that beekeepers (N = 213) with colony loss rates <10% generally have greater average levels of perceived risks and the benefits of action that lead to increased motivation to act in better ways. The results of this survey highlight the importance of looking beyond socio-economic determinants in any risk mitigation strategy associated with bee mortality when dealing with amateur beekeepers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noëmie El Agrebi
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk analysis applied to Veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
| | | | - Véronique Renault
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk analysis applied to Veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Faculty of Sciences, Honeybee Valley, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan, Ghent, Belgium.,Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University (UGent), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk analysis applied to Veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
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El Agrebi N, Traynor K, Wilmart O, Tosi S, Leinartz L, Danneels E, de Graaf DC, Saegerman C. Pesticide and veterinary drug residues in Belgian beeswax: Occurrence, toxicity, and risk to honey bees. Sci Total Environ 2020; 745:141036. [PMID: 32758732 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Pesticide and veterinary drug residues are one of the stress factors affecting bee health and mortality. To investigate the occurrence, the concentration and the toxicity risk to bees of pesticide residues in four different types of beeswax (brood comb wax, recycled comb wax, honey comb wax, and cappings wax), 182 samples were collected from apiaries located all over the Belgian territories, during spring 2016 and analysed by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS for the presence of 294 chemical residues. The toxicity risk to bees expressed as the Hazard Quotient (HQ) was calculated for each wax sample, according to two scenarios with different tau-fluvalinate LD50 values. Residues showing the highest prevalence were correlated to bee mortality in a multivariate logistic regression model and a risk-based model was used to predict colony bee mortality. Altogether, 54 different pesticide and veterinary drug residues were found in the four types of beeswax. The residues with a higher likelihood to be retained in beeswax are applied in-hive or with a high lipophilic nature. The multivariate logistic regression model showed a statistically significant influence of chlorfenvinphos on bee mortality. All our results indicated that cappings wax was substantially less contaminated. This national survey on beeswax contamination provides guidelines on the re-use of beeswax by beekeepers and shows the necessity to introduce maximum residue levels for global trade in beeswax. An online tool was developed to enable beekeepers and wax traders to estimate the risk to honey bee health associated with contaminated wax.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noëmie El Agrebi
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A, B42, 4000 Liège, Sart-Tilman, Belgium
| | - Kirsten Traynor
- Global Biosocial Complexity Initiative, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Olivier Wilmart
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), Directorate Control Policy, Staff Direction for Risk Assessment, Boulevard du Jardin Botanique 55, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Simone Tosi
- Epidemiology Unit, University Paris Est, ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety) Animal Health Laboratory, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Laurent Leinartz
- Teaching Support Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 5C-5D, B41, 4000 Liège, Sart-Tilman, Belgium
| | - Ellen Danneels
- Faculty of Sciences, Honeybee Valley, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S33, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Faculty of Sciences, Honeybee Valley, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S33, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A, B42, 4000 Liège, Sart-Tilman, Belgium.
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Matthijs S, De Waele V, Vandenberge V, Verhoeven B, Evers J, Brunain M, Saegerman C, De Winter PJJ, Roels S, de Graaf DC, De Regge N. Nationwide Screening for Bee Viruses and Parasites in Belgian Honey Bees. Viruses 2020; 12:v12080890. [PMID: 32823841 PMCID: PMC7472724 DOI: 10.3390/v12080890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The health of honey bees is threatened by multiple factors, including viruses and parasites. We screened 557 honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies from 155 beekeepers distributed all over Belgium to determine the prevalence of seven widespread viruses and two parasites (Varroa sp. and Nosema sp.). Deformed wing virus B (DWV-B), black queen cell virus (BQCV), and sacbrood virus (SBV) were highly prevalent and detected by real-time RT-PCR in more than 95% of the colonies. Acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV), chronic bee paralysis virus (CBPV) and deformed wing virus A (DWV-A) were prevalent to a lower extent (between 18 and 29%). Most viruses were only present at low or moderate viral loads. Nevertheless, about 50% of the colonies harbored at least one virus at high viral load (>107 genome copies/bee). Varroa mites and Nosema sp. were found in 81.5% and 59.7% of the honey bee colonies, respectively, and all Nosema were identified as Nosema ceranae by real time PCR. Interestingly, we found a significant correlation between the number of Varroa mites and DWV-B viral load. To determine the combined effect of these and other factors on honey bee health in Belgium, a follow up of colonies over multiple years is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Severine Matthijs
- Belgian National Reference Laboratory for Bee Diseases, Unit of Enzootic, Vector-Borne and Bee Diseases, Sciensano, Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; (V.V.); (S.R.); (N.D.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-2-379-05-54
| | - Valérie De Waele
- Veterinary Epidemiology, Sciensano, Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium;
| | - Valerie Vandenberge
- Belgian National Reference Laboratory for Bee Diseases, Unit of Enzootic, Vector-Borne and Bee Diseases, Sciensano, Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; (V.V.); (S.R.); (N.D.R.)
| | - Bénédicte Verhoeven
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, Kruidtuinlaan 55, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (B.V.); (J.E.); (P.J.J.D.W.)
| | - Jacqueline Evers
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, Kruidtuinlaan 55, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (B.V.); (J.E.); (P.J.J.D.W.)
| | - Marleen Brunain
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.B.); (D.C.d.G.)
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A B42, 4000 Liège, Belgium;
| | - Paul J. J. De Winter
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, Kruidtuinlaan 55, 1000 Brussels, Belgium; (B.V.); (J.E.); (P.J.J.D.W.)
| | - Stefan Roels
- Belgian National Reference Laboratory for Bee Diseases, Unit of Enzootic, Vector-Borne and Bee Diseases, Sciensano, Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; (V.V.); (S.R.); (N.D.R.)
| | - Dirk C. de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (M.B.); (D.C.d.G.)
| | - Nick De Regge
- Belgian National Reference Laboratory for Bee Diseases, Unit of Enzootic, Vector-Borne and Bee Diseases, Sciensano, Juliette Wytsmanstraat 14, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; (V.V.); (S.R.); (N.D.R.)
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Schoonvaere K, Brunain M, Baeke F, De Bruyne M, De Rycke R, de Graaf DC. Comparison between Apicystis cryptica sp. n. and Apicystis bombi (Arthrogregarida, Apicomplexa): Gregarine parasites that cause fat body hypertrophism in bees. Eur J Protistol 2020; 73:125688. [PMID: 32143143 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2020.125688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The molecular divergence, morphology and pathology of a cryptic gregarine that is related to the bee parasite Apicystis bombi Lipa and Triggiani, 1996 is described. The 18S ribosomal DNA gene sequence of the new gregarine was equally dissimilar to that of A. bombi and the closest related genus Mattesia Naville, 1930, although phylogenetic analysis supported a closer relation to A. bombi. Pronounced divergence with A. bombi was found in the ITS1 sequence (69.6% similarity) and seven protein-coding genes (nucleotide 78.05% and protein 90.2% similarity). The new gregarine was isolated from a Bombus pascuorum Scopoli, 1763 female and caused heavy hypertrophism of the fat body tissue in its host. In addition, infected cells of the hypopharyngeal gland tissue, an important excretory organ of the host, were observed. Mature oocysts were navicular in shape and contained four sporozoites, similar to A. bombi oocysts. Given these characteristics, we proposed the name Apicystis cryptica sp. n. Detections so far indicated that distribution and host species occupation of Apicystis spp. overlap at least in Europe, and that historical detections could not discriminate between them. Specific molecular assays were developed that can be implemented in future pathogen screens that aim to discriminate Apicystis spp. in bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karel Schoonvaere
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 Block S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marleen Brunain
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 Block S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Femke Baeke
- Department for Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Ghent University Expertise Centre for Transmission Electron Microscopy and VIB BioImaging Core, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michiel De Bruyne
- Department for Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Ghent University Expertise Centre for Transmission Electron Microscopy and VIB BioImaging Core, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Riet De Rycke
- Department for Biomedical Molecular Biology, Ghent University, VIB Center for Inflammation Research, Ghent, Belgium; Ghent University Expertise Centre for Transmission Electron Microscopy and VIB BioImaging Core, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 Block S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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El Agrebi N, Tosi S, Wilmart O, Scippo ML, de Graaf DC, Saegerman C. Honeybee and consumer's exposure and risk characterisation to glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH) and its degradation product (AMPA): Residues in beebread, wax, and honey. Sci Total Environ 2020; 704:135312. [PMID: 31780165 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In order to assess bee and human exposure to residues of glyphosate-based herbicide (GBH) and its main degradation products aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) and to characterise the risk posed by these substances, we analysed 3 different bee matrices; beebread (N = 81), wax (N = 100) and 10-paired samples of wax/honey collected in 2016/2017 from 379 Belgian apiaries. A high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionisation tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS-MS) was used as analytical method. Limit of quantification and detection (LOQ and LOD) for GBH residues and AMPA in the 3 matrices was respectively of 10 ng g-1 and 1 ng g-1. In beebread, 81.5% of the samples showed a residue concentration > LOQ and 9.9% of the samples a residue concentration < LOQ (detection without quantification); no significant difference in detection rate was found between the north and the south of the country. Glyphosate was detected in beeswax less frequently than in beebread (i.e. 26% >LOQ versus 81.5% >LOQ). The maximum GBH residues and AMPA concentration found in beebread (respectively 700 ng g-1 and 250 ng g-1) led to sub-lethal exposure to bees. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) for beebread and beeswax (7 and 3.2, respectively) were far below the "safety" oral and contact thresholds for bees. For human health, the highest exposure to GBH residues in pollen corresponded to 0.312% and 0.187% of the ADI and of the ARfD respectively and, to 0.002% and to 0.001% for beeswax. No transfer of glyphosate from wax to honey was detected. Considering our results and the available regulatory data on the glyphosate molecule considered solely, not including the adjuvants in GBH formulation, the consumption of these three contaminated matrices would not be a food safety issue. Nonetheless, caution should be taken in the interpretation of the results as new studies indicate possible glyphosate/GBH residues toxicity below regulatory limits and at chronic sub-lethal doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noëmie El Agrebi
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A, B42, 4000 Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
| | - Simone Tosi
- Epidemiology Unit, European Union Reference Laboratory (EURL) for Honeybee Health, University Paris Est, ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety) Animal Health Laboratory, Maisons-Alfort, France; Entomology Department, University of Maryland, USA
| | - Olivier Wilmart
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), Directorate Control Policy, Staff Direction for Risk Assessment, Boulevard du Jardin Botanique 55, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Louise Scippo
- Laboratory of Food Analysis, Department of Food Science, FARAH-Veterinary Public Health, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Faculty of Sciences, Honeybee Valley, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S33, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk Analysis Applied to Veterinary Sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A, B42, 4000 Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium.
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22
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El Agrebi N, Wilmart O, Urbain B, Danneels EL, de Graaf DC, Saegerman C. Belgian case study on flumethrin residues in beeswax: Possible impact on honeybee and prediction of the maximum daily intake for consumers. Sci Total Environ 2019; 687:712-719. [PMID: 31412474 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.05.493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
To assess the health risk posed by flumethrin residues in beeswax to honeybees and honey consumers, 124 wax samples randomly distributed in Belgium were analysed for flumethrin residues using liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. The risk posed by flumethrin residues in beeswax to honeybee health was assessed through the calculation of a non-pondered and a pondered Hazard Quotient by the prevalence rate of flumethrin considering an oral or topical exposure. No statistical difference was found when comparing both the average flumethrin residues concentrations and contact and oral pondered hazard quotients between apiaries with lower and equal or higher than 10% of colony loss. Flumethrin residues estimated daily intake by Belgian consumers through honey and wax ingestion was estimated via a deterministic (worst-case scenario) and a probabilistic approach. The probabilistic approach was not possible for beeswax consumption due to the lack of individual consumption data. The highest estimated exposure was <0.1% of the theoretical maximum daily intake for both approaches, meaning no risk for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noëmie El Agrebi
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk analysis applied to Veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A, B42, 4000 Liège, (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
| | - Olivier Wilmart
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), Directorate Control Policy, Staff Direction for Risk Assessment, Boulevard du Jardin Botanique 55, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bruno Urbain
- Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAMHP), Eurostation II, Place Victor Horta 40/40, 1060 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ellen L Danneels
- Faculty of Sciences, Honeybee Valley, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S33, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Faculty of Sciences, Honeybee Valley, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S33, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University (UGent), Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk analysis applied to Veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Quartier Vallée 2, Avenue de Cureghem 7A, B42, 4000 Liège, (Sart-Tilman), Belgium.
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Russkamp D, Van Vaerenbergh M, Etzold S, Eberlein B, Darsow U, Schiener M, De Smet L, Absmaier M, Biedermann T, Spillner E, Ollert M, Jakob T, Schmidt-Weber CB, de Graaf DC, Blank S. Characterization of the honeybee venom proteins C1q-like protein and PVF1 and their allergenic potential. Toxicon 2018; 150:198-206. [PMID: 29842867 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom (HBV) represents an ideal model to study the role of particular venom components in allergic reactions in sensitized individuals as well as in the eusociality of Hymenoptera species. The aim of this study was to further characterize the HBV components C1q-like protein (C1q) and PDGF/VEGF-like factor 1 (PVF1). C1q and PVF1 were produced as recombinant proteins in insect cells. Their allergenic properties were examined by determining the level of specific IgE antibodies in the sera of HBV-allergic patients (n = 26) as well as by their capacity to activate patients' basophils (n = 11). Moreover, the transcript heterogeneity of PVF1 was analyzed. It could be demonstrated that at least three PVF1 variants are present in the venom gland, which all result from alternative splicing of one transcript. Additionally, recombinant C1q and PVF1 from Spodoptera frugiperda insect cells exhibited specific IgE reactivity with approximately 38.5% of sera of HBV-allergic patients. Interestingly, both proteins were unable to activate basophils of the patients, questioning their role in the context of clinically relevant sensitization. Recombinant C1q and PVF1 can build the basis for a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms of Hymenoptera venoms. Moreover, the conflicting results between IgE sensitization and lack of basophil activation, might in the future contribute to the identification of factors that determine the allergenic potential of proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Russkamp
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Van Vaerenbergh
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Stefanie Etzold
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Munich, Germany
| | - Bernadette Eberlein
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Biederstein, Technical University of Munich, Am Biederstein 29, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Ulf Darsow
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Biederstein, Technical University of Munich, Am Biederstein 29, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian Schiener
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Munich, Germany
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Magdalena Absmaier
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Biederstein, Technical University of Munich, Am Biederstein 29, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Tilo Biedermann
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Biederstein, Technical University of Munich, Am Biederstein 29, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Edzard Spillner
- Immunological Engineering, Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 10, 9000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Markus Ollert
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), 29, Rue Henri Koch, 4354 Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg; Department of Dermatology and Allergy Center, Odense Research Center for Anaphylaxis, University of Southern Denmark, Sdr. Boulevard 29, 5000 Odense C, Denmark
| | - Thilo Jakob
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University Medical Center Gießen-Marburg, Justus Liebig University Gießen, Gaffkystraße 14, 35395 Gießen, Germany; Allergy Research Group, Department of Dermatology, University Freiburg Medical Center, Hauptstrasse 7, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Carsten B Schmidt-Weber
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Munich, Germany
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, 9000 Gent, Belgium
| | - Simon Blank
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Munich, Germany.
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Schoonvaere K, Smagghe G, Francis F, de Graaf DC. Study of the Metatranscriptome of Eight Social and Solitary Wild Bee Species Reveals Novel Viruses and Bee Parasites. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:177. [PMID: 29491849 PMCID: PMC5817871 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Bees are associated with a remarkable diversity of microorganisms, including unicellular parasites, bacteria, fungi, and viruses. The application of next-generation sequencing approaches enables the identification of this rich species composition as well as the discovery of previously unknown associations. Using high-throughput polyadenylated ribonucleic acid (RNA) sequencing, we investigated the metatranscriptome of eight wild bee species (Andrena cineraria, Andrena fulva, Andrena haemorrhoa, Bombus terrestris, Bombus cryptarum, Bombus pascuorum, Osmia bicornis, and Osmia cornuta) sampled from four different localities in Belgium. Across the RNA sequencing libraries, 88–99% of the taxonomically informative reads were of the host transcriptome. Four viruses with homology to insect pathogens were found including two RNA viruses (belonging to the families Iflaviridae and Tymoviridae that harbor already viruses of honey bees), a double stranded DNA virus (family Nudiviridae) and a single stranded DNA virus (family Parvoviridae). In addition, we found genomic sequences of 11 unclassified arthropod viruses (related to negeviruses, sobemoviruses, totiviruses, rhabdoviruses, and mononegaviruses), seven plant pathogenic viruses, and one fungal virus. Interestingly, nege-like viruses appear to be widespread, host-specific, and capable of attaining high copy numbers inside bees. Next to viruses, three novel parasite associations were discovered in wild bees, including Crithidia pragensis and a tubulinosematid and a neogregarine parasite. Yeasts of the genus Metschnikowia were identified in solitary bees. This study gives a glimpse of the microorganisms and viruses associated with social and solitary wild bees and demonstrates that their diversity exceeds by far the subset of species first discovered in honey bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karel Schoonvaere
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.,Functional and Evolutionary Entomology, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Francis
- Functional and Evolutionary Entomology, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Chemurot M, De Smet L, Brunain M, De Rycke R, de Graaf DC. Nosema neumanni n. sp. (Microsporidia, Nosematidae), a new microsporidian parasite of honeybees, Apis mellifera in Uganda. Eur J Protistol 2017; 61:13-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2017.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Amulen DR, Spanoghe P, Houbraken M, Tamale A, de Graaf DC, Cross P, Smagghe G. Environmental contaminants of honeybee products in Uganda detected using LC-MS/MS and GC-ECD. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178546. [PMID: 28570581 PMCID: PMC5453540 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Pollinator services and the development of beekeeping as a poverty alleviating tool have gained considerable focus in recent years in sub-Saharan Africa. An improved understanding of the pervasive environmental extent of agro-chemical contaminants is critical to the success of beekeeping development and the production of clean hive products. This study developed and validated a multi-residue method for screening 36 pesticides in honeybees, honey and beeswax using LC-MS/MS and GC-ECD. Of the 36 screened pesticides, 20 were detected. The highest frequencies occurred in beeswax and in samples from apiaries located in the proximity of citrus and tobacco farms. Fungicides were the most prevalent chemical class. Detected insecticides included neonicotinoids, organophosphates, carbamates, organophosphorus, tetrazines and diacylhydrazines. All detected pesticide levels were below maximum residue limits (according to EU regulations) and the lethal doses known for honeybees. However, future risk assessment is needed to determine the health effects on the African genotype of honeybees by these pesticide classes and combinations of these. In conclusion, our data present a significant challenge to the burgeoning organic honey sector in Uganda, but to achieve this, there is an urgent need to regulate the contact routes of pesticides into the beehive products. Interestingly, the "zero" detection rate of pesticides in the Mid-Northern zone is a significant indicator of the large potential to promote Ugandan organic honey for the export market.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Ruth Amulen
- Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University, Coupure Links, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Livestock Industrial Resources, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Pieter Spanoghe
- Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University, Coupure Links, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Michael Houbraken
- Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University, Coupure Links, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Andrew Tamale
- Department of Livestock Industrial Resources, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dirk C. de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul Cross
- School of Environment, Natural Resources and Geography, Bangor University, Gwynedd, United Kingdom
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University, Coupure Links, Ghent, Belgium
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Ernst UR, Cardoen D, Cornette V, Ratnieks FL, de Graaf DC, Schoofs L, Verleyen P, Wenseleers T. Individual and genetic task specialization in policing behaviour in the European honeybee. Anim Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2017.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Amulen DR, D’Haese M, Ahikiriza E, Agea JG, Jacobs FJ, de Graaf DC, Smagghe G, Cross P. The buzz about bees and poverty alleviation: Identifying drivers and barriers of beekeeping in sub-Saharan Africa. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172820. [PMID: 28235072 PMCID: PMC5325527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential of beekeeping to mitigate the exposure of rural sub-Sahara African farmers to economic stochasticity has been widely promoted by an array of development agencies. Robust outcome indicators of the success of beekeeping to improve household well-being are unfortunately lacking. This study aimed to identify the key drivers and barriers of beekeeping adoption at the household level, and quantified the associated income contribution in three agro-ecological zones in Uganda. Beekeepers were generally the most economically disadvantaged people in the study areas and tended to adopt beekeeping following contact with non-government organisations and access to training. Whilst incomes were not statistically lower than their non-beekeeping counterparts; their mean household well-being scores were significantly lower than non-beekeeping households. The inability of beekeeping to significantly improve well-being status can in part be attributed to a lack of both training in bee husbandry and protective equipment provision such as suits, gloves and smokers. These are critical tools for beekeepers as they provide the necessary confidence to manage honey bees. Rather than focussing solely on the socio-economic conditions of farmers to effectively adopt beekeeping, future research should also attempt to evaluate the effectiveness of development agencies’ provision to the beekeeping sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Ruth Amulen
- Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Livestock Industrial Resources, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Marijke D’Haese
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Jacob Godfrey Agea
- Department of Extension and Innovation Studies, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Frans J. Jacobs
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C. de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul Cross
- School of Environment, Natural Resources and Geography, Bangor University, Gwynedd, United Kingdom
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De Smet L, Hatjina F, Ioannidis P, Hamamtzoglou A, Schoonvaere K, Francis F, Meeus I, Smagghe G, de Graaf DC. Stress indicator gene expression profiles, colony dynamics and tissue development of honey bees exposed to sub-lethal doses of imidacloprid in laboratory and field experiments. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0171529. [PMID: 28182641 PMCID: PMC5300173 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, different context-dependent effects of imidacloprid exposure on the honey bee response were studied. Honey bees were exposed to different concentrations of imidacloprid during a time period of 40 days. Next to these variables, a laboratory-field comparison was conducted. The influence of the chronic exposure on gene expression levels was determined using an in-house developed microarray targeting different immunity-related and detoxification genes to determine stress-related gene expression changes. Increased levels of the detoxification genes encoding, CYP9Q3 and CYT P450, were detected in imidacloprid-exposed honey bees. The different context-dependent effects of imidacloprid exposure on honey bees were confirmed physiologically by decreased hypopharyngeal gland sizes. Honey bees exposed to imidacloprid in laboratory cages showed a general immunosuppression and no detoxification mechanisms were triggered significantly, while honey bees in-field showed a resilient response with an immune stimulation at later time points. However, the treated colonies had a brood and population decline tendency after the first brood cycle in the field. In conclusion, this study highlighted the different context-dependent effects of imidacloprid exposure on the honey bee response. These findings warn for possible pitfalls concerning the generalization of results based on specific experiments with short exposure times. The increased levels of CYT P450 and CYP9Q3 combined with an immune response reaction can be used as markers for bees which are exposed to pesticides in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| | - Fani Hatjina
- Division of Apiculture, Institute of Animal Science, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation ‘DEMETER’, Nea Moudania, Greece
| | - Pavlos Ioannidis
- Division of Apiculture, Institute of Animal Science, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation ‘DEMETER’, Nea Moudania, Greece
| | - Anna Hamamtzoglou
- Division of Apiculture, Institute of Animal Science, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation ‘DEMETER’, Nea Moudania, Greece
| | - Karel Schoonvaere
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Francis
- Department of Functional and Evolutionary Entomology, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Ivan Meeus
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C. de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Benaets K, Van Geystelen A, Cardoen D, De Smet L, de Graaf DC, Schoofs L, Larmuseau MHD, Brettell LE, Martin SJ, Wenseleers T. Covert deformed wing virus infections have long-term deleterious effects on honeybee foraging and survival. Proc Biol Sci 2017; 284:20162149. [PMID: 28148747 PMCID: PMC5310602 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2016.2149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have suggested that covert stressors can contribute to bee colony declines. Here we provide a novel case study and show using radiofrequency identification tracking technology that covert deformed wing virus (DWV) infections in adult honeybee workers seriously impact long-term foraging and survival under natural foraging conditions. In particular, our experiments show that adult workers injected with low doses of DWV experienced increased mortality rates, that DWV caused workers to start foraging at a premature age, and that the virus reduced the workers' total activity span as foragers. Altogether, these results demonstrate that covert DWV infections have strongly deleterious effects on honeybee foraging and survival. These results are consistent with previous studies that suggested DWV to be an important contributor to the ongoing bee declines in Europe and the USA. Overall, our study underlines the strong impact that covert pathogen infections can have on individual and group-level performance in bees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristof Benaets
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Laboratory of Socio-ecology and Social Evolution, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anneleen Van Geystelen
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Laboratory of Socio-ecology and Social Evolution, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dries Cardoen
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Laboratory of Socio-ecology and Social Evolution, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lina De Smet
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, UGent, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Gent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, UGent, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Gent, Belgium
| | - Liliane Schoofs
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Research group of Functional Genomics and Proteomics, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Maarten H D Larmuseau
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Laboratory of Socio-ecology and Social Evolution, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Forensic Genetics and Molecular Archaeology, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Forensic Medicine, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laura E Brettell
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, The University of Salford, Manchester, UK
| | - Stephen J Martin
- School of Environment and Life Sciences, The University of Salford, Manchester, UK
| | - Tom Wenseleers
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, Laboratory of Socio-ecology and Social Evolution, Leuven, Belgium
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31
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Schoonvaere K, De Smet L, Smagghe G, Vierstraete A, Braeckman BP, de Graaf DC. Unbiased RNA Shotgun Metagenomics in Social and Solitary Wild Bees Detects Associations with Eukaryote Parasites and New Viruses. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0168456. [PMID: 28006002 PMCID: PMC5179009 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0168456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The diversity of eukaryote organisms and viruses associated with wild bees remains poorly characterized in contrast to the well-documented pathosphere of the western honey bee, Apis mellifera. Using a deliberate RNA shotgun metagenomic sequencing strategy in combination with a dedicated bioinformatics workflow, we identified the (micro-)organisms and viruses associated with two bumble bee hosts, Bombus terrestris and Bombus pascuorum, and two solitary bee hosts, Osmia cornuta and Andrena vaga. Ion Torrent semiconductor sequencing generated approximately 3.8 million high quality reads. The most significant eukaryote associations were two protozoan, Apicystis bombi and Crithidia bombi, and one nematode parasite Sphaerularia bombi in bumble bees. The trypanosome protozoan C. bombi was also found in the solitary bee O. cornuta. Next to the identification of three honey bee viruses Black queen cell virus, Sacbrood virus and Varroa destructor virus-1 and four plant viruses, we describe two novel RNA viruses Scaldis River bee virus (SRBV) and Ganda bee virus (GABV) based on their partial genomic sequences. The novel viruses belong to the class of negative-sense RNA viruses, SRBV is related to the order Mononegavirales whereas GABV is related to the family Bunyaviridae. The potential biological role of both viruses in bees is discussed in the context of recent advances in the field of arthropod viruses. Further, fragmentary sequence evidence for other undescribed viruses is presented, among which a nudivirus in O. cornuta and an unclassified virus related to Chronic bee paralysis virus in B. terrestris. Our findings extend the current knowledge of wild bee parasites in general and addsto the growing evidence of unexplored arthropod viruses in valuable insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karel Schoonvaere
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Andy Vierstraete
- Laboratory of Ageing Physiology and Molecular Evolution, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart P. Braeckman
- Laboratory of Ageing Physiology and Molecular Evolution, Department of Biology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C. de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Wilmart O, Legrève A, Scippo ML, Reybroeck W, Urbain B, de Graaf DC, Steurbaut W, Delahaut P, Gustin P, Nguyen BK, Saegerman C. Residues in Beeswax: A Health Risk for the Consumer of Honey and Beeswax? J Agric Food Chem 2016; 64:8425-8434. [PMID: 27741395 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.6b02813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
A scenario analysis in regard to the risk of chronic exposure of consumers to residues through the consumption of contaminated honey and beeswax was conducted. Twenty-two plant protection products and veterinary substances of which residues have already been detected in beeswax in Europe were selected. The potential chronic exposure was assessed by applying a worst-case scenario based on the addition of a "maximum" daily intake through the consumption of honey and beeswax to the theoretical maximum daily intake through other foodstuffs. For each residue, the total exposure was finally compared to the acceptable daily intake. It is concluded that the food consumption of honey and beeswax contaminated with these residues considered separately does not compromise the consumer's health, provided proposed action limits are met. In regard to residues of flumethrin in honey and in beeswax, "zero tolerance" should be applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Wilmart
- Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (FASFC), Directorate Control Policy, Staff Direction for Risk Assessment , 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anne Legrève
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain , 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Earth & Life Institute (ELI), Université catholique de Louvain (UCL) , 2 bte L7.05.03 Croix du Sud, B-1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Marie-Louise Scippo
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain , 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Food Sciences - Laboratory of Food Analysis, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animals & Health (FARAH) Center, University of Liège (ULg) , 10 Avenue de Cureghem, B43bis, B-4000 Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
| | - Wim Reybroeck
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Technology and Food Science Unit , 370 Brusselsesteenweg, B-9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - Bruno Urbain
- Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAMHP) , Eurostation II, 40/40 Place Victor Horta, B-1060 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Faculty of Sciences, Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University (UGent) , 281 S2 Krijgslaan, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Walter Steurbaut
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain , 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
- Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University (UGent) , 653 Coupure links, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Philippe Delahaut
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain , 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
- Centre d'Economie Rurale (CER), Département Santé , 8 Rue de la Science, B-6900 Aye, Belgium
| | - Pascal Gustin
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain , 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Functional Sciences, Unit of Pharmacology-Pharmacotherapy-Toxicology, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animals & Health (FARAH) Center, University of Liège (ULg) , Quartier Vallée 2, 5A-5D Avenue de Cureghem, B41, B-4000 Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
| | - Bach Kim Nguyen
- Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech (GxABT), Department of Functional and Evolutionary Entomology, University of Liège (ULg) , 2 Passage des Déportés, B-5030 Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Scientific Committee, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain , 55 Boulevard du Jardin Botanique, B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Research Unit of Epidemiology and Risk analysis applied to Veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULg), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, University of Liège (ULg) , Quartier Vallée 2, 7A Avenue de Cureghem, B42, B-4000 Liège (Sart-Tilman), Belgium
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Descamps T, De Smet L, Stragier P, De Vos P, de Graaf DC. Multiple Locus Variable number of tandem repeat Analysis: A molecular genotyping tool for Paenibacillus larvae. Microb Biotechnol 2016; 9:772-781. [PMID: 27365124 PMCID: PMC5072193 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.12375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
American Foulbrood, caused by Paenibacillus larvae, is the most severe bacterial disease of honey bees (Apis mellifera). To perform genotyping of P. larvae in an epidemiological context, there is a need of a fast and cheap method with a high resolution. Here, we propose Multiple Locus Variable number of tandem repeat Analysis (MLVA). MLVA has been used for typing a collection of 209 P. larvae strains from which 23 different MLVA types could be identified. Moreover, the developed methodology not only permits the identification of the four Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC) genotypes, but allows also a discriminatory subdivision of the most dominant ERIC type I and ERIC type II genotypes. A biogeographical study has been conducted showing a significant correlation between MLVA genotype and the geographical region where it was isolated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tine Descamps
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Pieter Stragier
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul De Vos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Chemurot M, Brunain M, Akol AM, Descamps T, de Graaf DC. First detection of Paenibacillus larvae the causative agent of American Foulbrood in a Ugandan honeybee colony. Springerplus 2016; 5:1090. [PMID: 27468390 PMCID: PMC4947070 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-2767-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Paenibacillus larvae is a highly contagious and often lethal widely distributed pathogen of honeybees, Apis mellifera but has not been reported in eastern Africa to date. We investigated the presence of P. larvae in the eastern and western highland agro-ecological zones of Uganda by collecting brood and honey samples from 67 honeybee colonies in two sampling occasions and cultivated them for P. larvae. Also, 8 honeys imported and locally retailed in Uganda were sampled and cultivated for P. larvae. Our aim was to establish the presence and distribution of P. larvae in honeybee populations in the two highland agro-ecological zones of Uganda and to determine if honeys that were locally retailed contained this lethal pathogen. One honeybee colony without clinical symptoms for P. larvae in an apiary located in a protected area of the western highlands of Uganda was found positive for P. larvae. The strain of this P. larvae was genotyped and found to be ERIC I. In order to compare its virulence with P. larvae reference strains, in vitro infection experiments were conducted with carniolan honeybee larvae from the research laboratory at Ghent University, Belgium. The results show that the virulence of the P. larvae strain found in Uganda was at least equally high. The epidemiological implication of the presence of P. larvae in a protected area is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moses Chemurot
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium ; Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Marleen Brunain
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne M Akol
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tine Descamps
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Chemurot M, Akol AM, Masembe C, de Smet L, Descamps T, de Graaf DC. Factors influencing the prevalence and infestation levels of Varroa destructor in honeybee colonies in two highland agro-ecological zones of Uganda. Exp Appl Acarol 2016; 68:497-508. [PMID: 26801158 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-016-0013-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Varroa mites are ecto-parasites of honeybees and are a threat to the beekeeping industry. We identified the haplotype of Varroa mites and evaluated potential factors that influence their prevalence and infestation levels in the eastern and western highland agro-ecological zones of Uganda. This was done by collecting samples of adult worker bees between December 2014 and September 2015 in two sampling moments. Samples of bees were screened for Varroa using the ethanol wash method and the mites were identified by molecular techniques. All DNA sequences obtained from sampled mite populations in the two zones were 100 % identical to the Korean Haplotype (AF106899). Mean mite prevalence in the apiaries was 40 and 53 % for the western and eastern zones, respectively, during the first sampling. Over the second sampling, mean mite prevalence increased considerably in the western (59 %) but not in the eastern (51 %) zone. Factors that were associated with Varroa mite infestation levels include altitude, nature of apiary slope and apiary management practices during the first sampling. Our results further showed that Varroa mites were spreading from lower to higher elevations. Feral colonies were also infested with Varroa mites at infestation levels not significantly different from those in managed colonies. Colony productivity and strength were not correlated to mite infestation levels. We recommend a long-term Varroa mite monitoring strategy in areas of varying landscape and land use factors for a clear understanding of possible changes in mite infestation levels among African honeybees for informed decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moses Chemurot
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Anne M Akol
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Masembe
- Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Lina de Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tine Descamps
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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Danneels EL, Van Vaerenbergh M, Debyser G, Devreese B, de Graaf DC. Honeybee venom proteome profile of queens and winter bees as determined by a mass spectrometric approach. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:4468-83. [PMID: 26529016 PMCID: PMC4663515 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7114468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Venoms of invertebrates contain an enormous diversity of proteins, peptides, and other classes of substances. Insect venoms are characterized by a large interspecific variation resulting in extended lists of venom compounds. The venom composition of several hymenopterans also shows different intraspecific variation. For instance, venom from different honeybee castes, more specifically queens and workers, shows quantitative and qualitative variation, while the environment, like seasonal changes, also proves to be an important factor. The present study aimed at an in-depth analysis of the intraspecific variation in the honeybee venom proteome. In summer workers, the recent list of venom proteins resulted from merging combinatorial peptide ligand library sample pretreatment and targeted tandem mass spectrometry realized with a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer (FT-ICR MS/MS). Now, the same technique was used to determine the venom proteome of queens and winter bees, enabling us to compare it with that of summer bees. In total, 34 putative venom toxins were found, of which two were never described in honeybee venoms before. Venom from winter workers did not contain toxins that were not present in queens or summer workers, while winter worker venom lacked the allergen Api m 12, also known as vitellogenin. Venom from queen bees, on the other hand, was lacking six of the 34 venom toxins compared to worker bees, while it contained two new venom toxins, in particularly serine proteinase stubble and antithrombin-III. Although people are hardly stung by honeybees during winter or by queen bees, these newly identified toxins should be taken into account in the characterization of a putative allergic response against Apis mellifera stings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen L Danneels
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Matthias Van Vaerenbergh
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Griet Debyser
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Bart Devreese
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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37
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Ravoet J, Schwarz RS, Descamps T, Yañez O, Tozkar CO, Martin-Hernandez R, Bartolomé C, De Smet L, Higes M, Wenseleers T, Schmid-Hempel R, Neumann P, Kadowaki T, Evans JD, de Graaf DC. Differential diagnosis of the honey bee trypanosomatids Crithidia mellificae and Lotmaria passim. J Invertebr Pathol 2015; 130:21-7. [PMID: 26146231 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2015.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Revised: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosomatids infecting honey bees have been poorly studied with molecular methods until recently. After the description of Crithidia mellificae (Langridge and McGhee, 1967) it took about forty years until molecular data for honey bee trypanosomatids became available and were used to identify and describe a new trypanosomatid species from honey bees, Lotmaria passim (Evans and Schwarz, 2014). However, an easy method to distinguish them without sequencing is not yet available. Research on the related bumble bee parasites Crithidia bombi and Crithidia expoeki revealed a fragment length polymorphism in the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1), which enabled species discrimination. In search of fragment length polymorphisms for differential diagnostics in honey bee trypanosomatids, we studied honey bee trypanosomatid cell cultures of C. mellificae and L. passim. This research resulted in the identification of fragment length polymorphisms in ITS1 and ITS1-2 markers, which enabled us to develop a diagnostic method to differentiate both honey bee trypanosomatid species without the need for sequencing. However, the amplification success of the ITS1 marker depends probably on the trypanosomatid infection level. Further investigation confirmed that L. passim is the dominant species in Belgium, Japan and Switzerland. We found C. mellificae only rarely in Belgian honey bee samples, but not in honey bee samples from other countries. C. mellificae was also detected in mason bees (Osmia bicornis and Osmia cornuta) besides in honey bees. Further, the characterization and comparison of additional markers from L. passim strain SF (published as C. mellificae strain SF) and a Belgian honey bee sample revealed very low divergence in the 18S rRNA, ITS1-2, 28S rRNA and cytochrome b sequences. Nevertheless, a variable stretch was observed in the gp63 virulence factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorgen Ravoet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Ryan S Schwarz
- USDA-ARS Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center - East, Beltsville, United States
| | - Tine Descamps
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Orlando Yañez
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Cansu Ozge Tozkar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Carolina Bartolomé
- Medicina Xenómica, CIMUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Xenómica Comparada de Parásitos Humanos, IDIS, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mariano Higes
- Bee Pathology Laboratory, Centro Apícola Regional, Marchamalo, Spain
| | - Tom Wenseleers
- Laboratory of Socioecology and Social Evolution, K.U. Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Regula Schmid-Hempel
- Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Peter Neumann
- Institute of Bee Health, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Tatsuhiko Kadowaki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jay D Evans
- USDA-ARS Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center - East, Beltsville, United States
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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38
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Gamboa V, Ravoet J, Brunain M, Smagghe G, Meeus I, Figueroa J, Riaño D, de Graaf DC. Bee pathogens found in Bombus atratus from Colombia: A case study. J Invertebr Pathol 2015; 129:36-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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39
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Van Vaerenbergh M, Debyser G, Smagghe G, Devreese B, de Graaf DC. Unraveling the venom proteome of the bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) by integrating a combinatorial peptide ligand library approach with FT-ICR MS. Toxicon 2015; 102:81-8. [PMID: 26071081 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Within the Apidae, the largest family of bees with over 5600 described species, the honeybee is the sole species with a well studied venom proteome. So far, only little research has focused on bumblebee venom. Recently, the genome sequence of the European large earth bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) became available and this allowed the first in-depth proteomic analysis of its venom composition. We identified 57 compounds, with 52 of them never described in bumblebee venom. Remarkably, 72% of the detected compounds were found to have a honeybee venom homolog, which reflects the similar defensive function of both venoms and the high degree of homology between both genomes. However, both venoms contain a selection of species-specific toxins, revealing distinct damaging effects that may have evolved in response to species-specific attackers. Further, this study extends the list of potential venom allergens. The availability of both the honeybee and bumblebee venom proteome may help to develop a strategy that solves the current issue of false double sensitivity in allergy diagnosis, which is caused by cross-reactivity between both venoms. A correct diagnosis is important as it is recommended to perform an immunotherapy with venom of the culprit species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Griet Debyser
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart Devreese
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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40
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Ravoet J, Reybroeck W, de Graaf DC. Pesticides for apicultural and/or agricultural application found in Belgian honey bee wax combs. Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 2015; 94:543-8. [PMID: 25749505 PMCID: PMC4391733 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-015-1511-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
In a Belgian pilot study honey bee wax combs from ten hives were analyzed on the presence of almost 300 organochlorine and organophosphorous compounds by LC-MS/MS and GC-MS/MS. Traces of 18 pesticides were found and not a single sample was free of residues. The number of residues found per sample ranged from 3 to 13, and the pesticides found could be categorized as (1) pesticides for solely apicultural (veterinary) application, (2) pesticides for solely agricultural (crop protection) application, (3) pesticides for mixed agricultural and apicultural (veterinary) application. The frequencies and quantities of some environmental pollutants bear us high concerns. Most alarming was the detection of lindane (gamma-HCH) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (including its breakdown product dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene), two insecticides that are banned in Europe. The present comprehensive residue analysis, however, also reveals residues of pesticides never found in beeswax before, i.e. DEET, propargite and bromophos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorgen Ravoet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Wim Reybroeck
- Technology and Food Science Unit, Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Brusselsesteenweg 370, 9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - Dirk C. de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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41
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Sadd BM, Barribeau SM, Bloch G, de Graaf DC, Dearden P, Elsik CG, Gadau J, Grimmelikhuijzen CJP, Hasselmann M, Lozier JD, Robertson HM, Smagghe G, Stolle E, Van Vaerenbergh M, Waterhouse RM, Bornberg-Bauer E, Klasberg S, Bennett AK, Câmara F, Guigó R, Hoff K, Mariotti M, Munoz-Torres M, Murphy T, Santesmasses D, Amdam GV, Beckers M, Beye M, Biewer M, Bitondi MMG, Blaxter ML, Bourke AFG, Brown MJF, Buechel SD, Cameron R, Cappelle K, Carolan JC, Christiaens O, Ciborowski KL, Clarke DF, Colgan TJ, Collins DH, Cridge AG, Dalmay T, Dreier S, du Plessis L, Duncan E, Erler S, Evans J, Falcon T, Flores K, Freitas FCP, Fuchikawa T, Gempe T, Hartfelder K, Hauser F, Helbing S, Humann FC, Irvine F, Jermiin LS, Johnson CE, Johnson RM, Jones AK, Kadowaki T, Kidner JH, Koch V, Köhler A, Kraus FB, Lattorff HMG, Leask M, Lockett GA, Mallon EB, Antonio DSM, Marxer M, Meeus I, Moritz RFA, Nair A, Näpflin K, Nissen I, Niu J, Nunes FMF, Oakeshott JG, Osborne A, Otte M, Pinheiro DG, Rossié N, Rueppell O, Santos CG, Schmid-Hempel R, Schmitt BD, Schulte C, Simões ZLP, Soares MPM, Swevers L, Winnebeck EC, Wolschin F, Yu N, Zdobnov EM, Aqrawi PK, Blankenburg KP, Coyle M, Francisco L, Hernandez AG, Holder M, Hudson ME, Jackson L, Jayaseelan J, Joshi V, Kovar C, Lee SL, Mata R, Mathew T, Newsham IF, Ngo R, Okwuonu G, Pham C, Pu LL, Saada N, Santibanez J, Simmons D, Thornton R, Venkat A, Walden KKO, Wu YQ, Debyser G, Devreese B, Asher C, Blommaert J, Chipman AD, Chittka L, Fouks B, Liu J, O'Neill MP, Sumner S, Puiu D, Qu J, Salzberg SL, Scherer SE, Muzny DM, Richards S, Robinson GE, Gibbs RA, Schmid-Hempel P, Worley KC. The genomes of two key bumblebee species with primitive eusocial organization. Genome Biol 2015; 16:76. [PMID: 25908251 PMCID: PMC4414376 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-015-0623-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The shift from solitary to social behavior is one of the major evolutionary transitions. Primitively eusocial bumblebees are uniquely placed to illuminate the evolution of highly eusocial insect societies. Bumblebees are also invaluable natural and agricultural pollinators, and there is widespread concern over recent population declines in some species. High-quality genomic data will inform key aspects of bumblebee biology, including susceptibility to implicated population viability threats. Results We report the high quality draft genome sequences of Bombus terrestris and Bombus impatiens, two ecologically dominant bumblebees and widely utilized study species. Comparing these new genomes to those of the highly eusocial honeybee Apis mellifera and other Hymenoptera, we identify deeply conserved similarities, as well as novelties key to the biology of these organisms. Some honeybee genome features thought to underpin advanced eusociality are also present in bumblebees, indicating an earlier evolution in the bee lineage. Xenobiotic detoxification and immune genes are similarly depauperate in bumblebees and honeybees, and multiple categories of genes linked to social organization, including development and behavior, show high conservation. Key differences identified include a bias in bumblebee chemoreception towards gustation from olfaction, and striking differences in microRNAs, potentially responsible for gene regulation underlying social and other traits. Conclusions These two bumblebee genomes provide a foundation for post-genomic research on these key pollinators and insect societies. Overall, gene repertoires suggest that the route to advanced eusociality in bees was mediated by many small changes in many genes and processes, and not by notable expansion or depauperation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13059-015-0623-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben M Sadd
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL, 61790, USA. .,Experimental Ecology, Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössiche Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Seth M Barribeau
- Experimental Ecology, Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössiche Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland. .,Department of Biology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA.
| | - Guy Bloch
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Peter Dearden
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Christine G Elsik
- Division of Animal Sciences, Division of Plant Sciences, and MU Informatics Institute, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA. .,Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
| | - Jürgen Gadau
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA.
| | - Cornelis J P Grimmelikhuijzen
- Center for Functional and Comparative Insect Genomics, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Martin Hasselmann
- University of Hohenheim, Institute of Animal Science, Garbenstrasse 17, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Jeffrey D Lozier
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35487, USA.
| | - Hugh M Robertson
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Eckart Stolle
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany.
| | - Matthias Van Vaerenbergh
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, S2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Robert M Waterhouse
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, rue Michel-Servet 1, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, rue Michel-Servet 1, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 32 Vassar Street, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA. .,The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 7 Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA.
| | - Erich Bornberg-Bauer
- Westfalian Wilhelms University, Institute of Evolution and Biodiversity, Huefferstrasse 1, 48149, Muenster, Germany.
| | - Steffen Klasberg
- Westfalian Wilhelms University, Institute of Evolution and Biodiversity, Huefferstrasse 1, 48149, Muenster, Germany.
| | - Anna K Bennett
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
| | - Francisco Câmara
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain. .,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Roderic Guigó
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain. .,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Katharina Hoff
- Ernst Moritz Arndt University Greifswald, Institute for Mathematics and Computer Science, Walther-Rathenau-Str. 47, 17487, Greifswald, Germany.
| | - Marco Mariotti
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain. .,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Monica Munoz-Torres
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, 20057, USA. .,Genomics Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA.
| | - Terence Murphy
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, Bethesda, USA.
| | - Didac Santesmasses
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003, Barcelona, Spain. .,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Gro V Amdam
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA. .,Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of Food Science, N-1432, Aas, Norway.
| | - Matthew Beckers
- School of Computing Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Martin Beye
- Institute of Evolutionary Genetics, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - Matthias Biewer
- University of Hohenheim, Institute of Animal Science, Garbenstrasse 17, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany. .,University of Cologne, Institute of Genetics, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Márcia M G Bitondi
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-901, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
| | - Mark L Blaxter
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Edinburgh Genomics, The Ashworth Laboratories, The King's Buildings, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3FL, UK.
| | - Andrew F G Bourke
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Mark J F Brown
- School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway University of London, London, UK.
| | - Severine D Buechel
- Experimental Ecology, Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössiche Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Rossanah Cameron
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Kaat Cappelle
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| | - James C Carolan
- Maynooth University Department of Biology, Maynooth University, Co, Kildare, Ireland.
| | - Olivier Christiaens
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Kate L Ciborowski
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK.
| | | | - Thomas J Colgan
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - David H Collins
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Andrew G Cridge
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Tamas Dalmay
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Stephanie Dreier
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.
| | - Louis du Plessis
- Theoretical Biology, Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössiche Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland. .,Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland. .,Computational Evolution, Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Elizabeth Duncan
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Silvio Erler
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany.
| | - Jay Evans
- USDA-ARS Bee Research Laboratory, Maryland, USA.
| | - Tiago Falcon
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-900, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
| | - Kevin Flores
- Center for Research in Scientific Computation, North Carolina State University Raleigh, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Flávia C P Freitas
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-900, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
| | - Taro Fuchikawa
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel. .,Laboratory of Insect Ecology, Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Tanja Gempe
- Institute of Evolutionary Genetics, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - Klaus Hartfelder
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-900, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
| | - Frank Hauser
- Center for Functional and Comparative Insect Genomics, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Sophie Helbing
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany.
| | - Fernanda C Humann
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de São Paulo, 15991-502, Matão, Brazil.
| | - Frano Irvine
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | | | - Claire E Johnson
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| | - Reed M Johnson
- Department of Entomology, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH, 44791, USA.
| | - Andrew K Jones
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK.
| | - Tatsuhiko Kadowaki
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, China.
| | - Jonathan H Kidner
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany.
| | - Vasco Koch
- Institute of Evolutionary Genetics, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - Arian Köhler
- Institute of Evolutionary Genetics, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - F Bernhard Kraus
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany. .,Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Halle (Saale), Halle, Germany.
| | - H Michael G Lattorff
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany. .,German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Megan Leask
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | | | - Eamonn B Mallon
- Department of Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.
| | - David S Marco Antonio
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-900, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
| | - Monika Marxer
- Experimental Ecology, Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössiche Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Ivan Meeus
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Robin F A Moritz
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany.
| | - Ajay Nair
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Kathrin Näpflin
- Experimental Ecology, Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössiche Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Inga Nissen
- Institute of Evolutionary Genetics, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - Jinzhi Niu
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Francis M F Nunes
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, 13565-905, São Carlos, Brazil.
| | | | - Amy Osborne
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Marianne Otte
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany.
| | - Daniel G Pinheiro
- Departamento de Tecnologia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, Brazil.
| | - Nina Rossié
- Institute of Evolutionary Genetics, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - Olav Rueppell
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 321 McIver Street, Greensboro, NC, 27403, USA.
| | - Carolina G Santos
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-900, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
| | - Regula Schmid-Hempel
- Experimental Ecology, Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössiche Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Björn D Schmitt
- Institute of Evolutionary Genetics, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - Christina Schulte
- Institute of Evolutionary Genetics, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Universitaetsstrasse 1, 40225, Duesseldorf, Germany.
| | - Zilá L P Simões
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-901, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
| | - Michelle P M Soares
- Departamento de Genética, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-900, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
| | - Luc Swevers
- Institute of Biosciences & Applications, National Center for Scientific Research Demokritos, Athens, Greece.
| | | | - Florian Wolschin
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA. .,Department of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Science, Norwegian University of Food Science, N-1432, Aas, Norway.
| | - Na Yu
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Evgeny M Zdobnov
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva Medical School, rue Michel-Servet 1, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland. .,Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, rue Michel-Servet 1, 1211, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Peshtewani K Aqrawi
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Kerstin P Blankenburg
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Marcus Coyle
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Liezl Francisco
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Alvaro G Hernandez
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | - Michael Holder
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Matthew E Hudson
- Department of Crop Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| | - LaRonda Jackson
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Joy Jayaseelan
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Vandita Joshi
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Christie Kovar
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Sandra L Lee
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Robert Mata
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Tittu Mathew
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Irene F Newsham
- Molecular Genetic Technology Program, School of Health Professions, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 2, Houston, TX, 77025, USA.
| | - Robin Ngo
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Geoffrey Okwuonu
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Christopher Pham
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Ling-Ling Pu
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Nehad Saada
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Jireh Santibanez
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - DeNard Simmons
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Rebecca Thornton
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Aarti Venkat
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Kimberly K O Walden
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| | - Yuan-Qing Wu
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Griet Debyser
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Bart Devreese
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Claire Asher
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.
| | - Julie Blommaert
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Ariel D Chipman
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior, The Alexander Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Lars Chittka
- Department of Biological and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK.
| | - Bertrand Fouks
- Institute of Biology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Wittenberg, Germany. .,Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 321 McIver Street, Greensboro, NC, 27403, USA.
| | - Jisheng Liu
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium. .,School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Meaghan P O'Neill
- Laboratory for Evolution and Development, Genetics Otago and the National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Seirian Sumner
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK.
| | - Daniela Puiu
- Center for Computational Biology, McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Jiaxin Qu
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Steven L Salzberg
- Center for Computational Biology, McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Steven E Scherer
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Donna M Muzny
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Stephen Richards
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Gene E Robinson
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Department of Entomology, Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1206 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
| | - Richard A Gibbs
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| | - Paul Schmid-Hempel
- Experimental Ecology, Institute of Integrative Biology, Eidgenössiche Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, CH-8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Kim C Worley
- Human Genome Sequencing Center, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, MS BCM226, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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Schwarz RS, Bauchan GR, Murphy CA, Ravoet J, de Graaf DC, Evans JD. Characterization of Two Species of Trypanosomatidae from the Honey Bee Apis mellifera: Crithidia mellificae Langridge and McGhee, and Lotmaria passim n. gen., n. sp. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2015; 62:567-83. [PMID: 25712037 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/21/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosomatids are increasingly recognized as prevalent in European honey bees (Apis mellifera) and by default are attributed to one recognized species, Crithidia mellificae Langridge and McGhee, 1967. We provide reference genetic and ultrastructural data for type isolates of C. mellificae (ATCC 30254 and 30862) in comparison with two recent isolates from A. mellifera (BRL and SF). Phylogenetics unambiguously identify strains BRL/SF as a novel taxonomic unit distinct from C. mellificae strains 30254/30862 and assign all four strains as lineages of a novel clade within the subfamily Leishmaniinae. In vivo analyses show strains BRL/SF preferably colonize the hindgut, lining the lumen as adherent spheroids in a manner identical to previous descriptions from C. mellificae. Microscopy images show motile forms of C. mellificae are distinct from strains BRL/SF. We propose the binomial Lotmaria passim n. gen., n. sp. for this previously undescribed taxon. Analyses of new and previously accessioned genetic data show C. mellificae is still extant in bee populations, however, L. passim n. gen., n. sp. is currently the predominant trypanosomatid in A. mellifera globally. Our findings require that previous reports of C. mellificae be reconsidered and that subsequent trypanosomatid species designations from Hymenoptera provide genetic support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S Schwarz
- Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center - East, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Bldg 306, 10300 Baltimore Ave., Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Gary R Bauchan
- Electron and Confocal Microscopy Unit, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center - West, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Bldg 012, 10300 Baltimore Ave., Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Charles A Murphy
- Electron and Confocal Microscopy Unit, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center - West, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Bldg 012, 10300 Baltimore Ave., Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Jorgen Ravoet
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Faculty of Science, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Faculty of Science, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jay D Evans
- Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center - East, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Bldg 306, 10300 Baltimore Ave., Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
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Ravoet J, De Smet L, Wenseleers T, de Graaf DC. Vertical transmission of honey bee viruses in a Belgian queen breeding program. BMC Vet Res 2015; 11:61. [PMID: 25889959 PMCID: PMC4365526 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-015-0386-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Member States of European Union are encouraged to improve the general conditions for the production and marketing of apicultural products. In Belgium, programmes on the restocking of honey bee hives have run for many years. Overall, the success ratio of this queen breeding programme has been only around 50%. To tackle this low efficacy, we organized sanitary controls of the breeding queens in 2012 and 2014. Results We found a high quantity of viruses, with more than 75% of the egg samples being infected with at least one virus. The most abundant viruses were Deformed Wing Virus and Sacbrood Virus (≥40%), although Lake Sinai Virus and Acute Bee Paralysis Virus were also occasionally detected (between 10-30%). In addition, Aphid Lethal Paralysis Virus strain Brookings, Black Queen Cell Virus, Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus and Varroa destructor Macula-like Virus occurred at very low prevalences (≤5%). Remarkably, we found Apis mellifera carnica bees to be less infected with Deformed Wing Virus than Buckfast bees (p < 0.01), and also found them to have a lower average total number of infecting viruses (p < 0.001). This is a significant finding, given that Deformed Wing Virus has earlier been shown to be a contributory factor to winter mortality and Colony Collapse Disorder. Moreover, negative-strand detection of Sacbrood Virus in eggs was demonstrated for the first time. Conclusions High pathogen loads were observed in this sanitary control program. We documented for the first time vertical transmission of some viruses, as well as significant differences between two honey bee races in being affected by Deformed Wing Virus. Nevertheless, we could not demonstrate a correlation between the presence of viruses and queen breeding efficacies. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12917-015-0386-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorgen Ravoet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Tom Wenseleers
- Laboratory of Socioecology and Social Evolution, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 59, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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Ravoet J, De Smet L, Wenseleers T, de Graaf DC. Genome sequence heterogeneity of Lake Sinai Virus found in honey bees and Orf1/RdRP-based polymorphisms in a single host. Virus Res 2015; 201:67-72. [PMID: 25725149 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2015.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Revised: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are susceptible to a wide range of pathogens, including a broad set of viruses. Recently, next-generation sequencing has expanded the list of viruses with, for instance, two strains of Lake Sinai Virus. Soon after its discovery in the USA, LSV was also discovered in other countries and in other hosts. In the present study, we assemble four almost complete LSV genomes, and show that there is remarkable sequence heterogeneity based on the Orf1, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and capsid protein sequences in comparison to the previously identified LSV 1 and 2 strains. Phylogenetic analyses of LSV sequences obtained from single honey bee specimens further revealed that up to three distinctive clades could be present in a single bee. Such superinfections have not previously been identified for other honey bee viruses. In a search for the putative routes of LSV transmission, we were able to demonstrate the presence of LSV in pollen pellets and in Varroa destructor mites. However, negative-strand analyses demonstrated that the virus only actively replicates in honey bees and mason bees (Osmia cornuta) and not in Varroa mites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorgen Ravoet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium.
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
| | - Tom Wenseleers
- Laboratory of Socioecology and Social Evolution, K.U. Leuven, Leuven B-3000, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Ghent B-9000, Belgium
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Van Vaerenbergh M, Debyser G, Devreese B, de Graaf DC. Exploring the hidden honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom proteome by integrating a combinatorial peptide ligand library approach with FTMS. J Proteomics 2014; 99:169-78. [PMID: 24606962 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2013.04.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Revised: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 04/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED At present, 30 compounds have been described in the venom of the honeybee, and 16 of them were confirmed by mass spectrometry. Previous studies typically combined 2-D PAGE with MALDI-TOF/TOF MS, a technology which now appears to lack sensitivity to detect additional venom compounds. Here, we report an in-depth study of the honeybee venom proteome using a combinatorial peptide ligand library sample pretreatment to enrich for minor components followed by shotgun LC-FT-ICR MS analysis. This strategy revealed an unexpectedly rich venom composition: in total 102 proteins and peptides were found, with 83 of them never described in bee venom samples before. Based on their predicted function and subcellular location, the proteins could be divided into two groups. A group of 33 putative toxins is proposed to contribute to venom activity by exerting toxic functions or by playing a role in social immunity. The other group, considered as venom trace molecules, appears to be secreted for their functions in the extracellular space, or is unintentionally secreted by the venom gland cells due to insufficient protein recycling or co-secretion with other compounds. In conclusion, our approach allowed to explore the hidden honeybee venom proteome and extended the list of potential venom allergens. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE This study dug deeper into the complex honeybee venom proteome than ever before by applying a highly performing sample pretreatment and mass spectrometric technology. We present putative biological functions for all identified compounds, largely extending our knowledge of the venom toxicity. In addition, this study offers a long list of potential new venom allergens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Griet Debyser
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart Devreese
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Van Vaerenbergh M, De Smet L, Rafei-Shamsabadi D, Blank S, Spillner E, Ebo DG, Devreese B, Jakob T, de Graaf DC. IgE recognition of chimeric isoforms of the honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom allergen Api m 10 evaluated by protein array technology. Mol Immunol 2014; 63:449-55. [PMID: 25451974 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2014.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 09/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Api m 10 has recently been established as novel major allergen that is recognized by more than 60% of honeybee venom (HBV) allergic patients. Previous studies suggest Api m 10 protein heterogeneity which may have implications for diagnosis and immunotherapy of HBV allergy. In the present study, RT-PCR revealed the expression of at least nine additional Api m 10 transcript isoforms by the venom glands. Two distinct mechanisms are responsible for the generation of these isoforms: while the previously known variant 2 is produced by an alternative splicing event, novel identified isoforms are intragenic chimeric transcripts. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the identification of chimeric transcripts generated by the honeybee. By a retrospective proteomic analysis we found evidence for the presence of several of these isoforms in the venom proteome. Additionally, we analyzed IgE reactivity to different isoforms by protein array technology using sera from HBV allergic patients, which revealed that IgE recognition of Api m 10 is both isoform- and patient-specific. While it was previously demonstrated that the majority of HBV allergic patients display IgE reactivity to variant 2, our study also shows that some patients lacking IgE antibodies for variant 2 display IgE reactivity to two of the novel identified Api m 10 variants, i.e. variants 3 and 4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Van Vaerenbergh
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - David Rafei-Shamsabadi
- Allergy Research Group, Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 7, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Simon Blank
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University and Helmholtz Center Munich, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, D-85764 Munich, Germany
| | - Edzard Spillner
- Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, Gustav Wieds Vej 10, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Didier G Ebo
- Department of Immunology, Allergology, and Rheumatology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, B-2610 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Bart Devreese
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Thilo Jakob
- Allergy Research Group, Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Hauptstrasse 7, D-79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Cepero A, Ravoet J, Gómez-Moracho T, Bernal JL, Del Nozal MJ, Bartolomé C, Maside X, Meana A, González-Porto AV, de Graaf DC, Martín-Hernández R, Higes M. Holistic screening of collapsing honey bee colonies in Spain: a case study. BMC Res Notes 2014; 7:649. [PMID: 25223634 PMCID: PMC4180541 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Here we present a holistic screening of collapsing colonies from three professional apiaries in Spain. Colonies with typical honey bee depopulation symptoms were selected for multiple possible factors to reveal the causes of collapse. Results Omnipresent were Nosema ceranae and Lake Sinai Virus. Moderate prevalences were found for Black Queen Cell Virus and trypanosomatids, whereas Deformed Wing Virus, Aphid Lethal Paralysis Virus strain Brookings and neogregarines were rarely detected. Other viruses, Nosema apis, Acarapis woodi and Varroa destructor were not detected. Palinologic study of pollen demonstrated that all colonies were foraging on wild vegetation. Consequently, the pesticide residue analysis was negative for neonicotinoids. The genetic analysis of trypanosomatids GAPDH gene, showed that there is a large genetic distance between Crithidia mellificae ATCC30254, an authenticated cell strain since 1974, and the rest of the presumed C. mellificae sequences obtained in our study or published. This means that the latter group corresponds to a highly differentiated taxon that should be renamed accordingly. Conclusion The results of this study demonstrate that the drivers of colony collapse may differ between geographic regions with different environmental conditions, or with different beekeeping and agricultural practices. The role of other pathogens in colony collapse has to bee studied in future, especially trypanosomatids and neogregarines. Beside their pathological effect on honey bees, classification and taxonomy of these protozoan parasites should also be clarified. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1756-0500-7-649) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mariano Higes
- Bee Pathology Laboratory, Consejería de Agricultura, Gobierno de Castilla-La Mancha, Centro Apícola Regional (CAR), Marchamalo E-19180, Spain.
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Ravoet J, De Smet L, Meeus I, Smagghe G, Wenseleers T, de Graaf DC. Widespread occurrence of honey bee pathogens in solitary bees. J Invertebr Pathol 2014; 122:55-8. [PMID: 25196470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2014.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Solitary bees and honey bees from a neighbouring apiary were screened for a broad set of putative pathogens including protists, fungi, spiroplasmas and viruses. Most sampled bees appeared to be infected with multiple parasites. Interestingly, viruses exclusively known from honey bees such as Apis mellifera Filamentous Virus and Varroa destructor Macula-like Virus were also discovered in solitary bees. A microsporidium found in Andrena vaga showed most resemblance to Nosema thomsoni. Our results suggest that bee hives represent a putative source of pathogens for other pollinators. Similarly, solitary bees may act as a reservoir of honey bee pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorgen Ravoet
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Lina De Smet
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ivan Meeus
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Tom Wenseleers
- Laboratory of Socioecology and Social Evolution, K.U. Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Meeus I, Mosallanejad H, Niu J, de Graaf DC, Wäckers F, Smagghe G. Gamma irradiation of pollen and eradication of Israeli acute paralysis virus. J Invertebr Pathol 2014; 121:74-7. [PMID: 25034227 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2014.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2014] [Revised: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 06/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Honeybees and bumblebees are the most important pollinators of agricultural crops. For this purpose honeybees and bumblebees are reared and transported. A pathogen-free status of bees in general, is crucial. Indeed anthropogenic transports of hosts carrying parasites could alter the natural host/pathogen association, inducing an extra pathogenic stress. Therefore the creation of a pathogen-free rearing environment is needed. For bumblebees this is possible, as these species are reared in a closed environment. Although, a link remains between reared bumblebees and the outside bee community, as honeybee-collected pollen is essential food for bumblebee mass rearing. Here we evaluated if gamma irradiation can minimize the risk of this potential route of exposure and can inactivate viral particles present in honeybee-collected pollen. We show that 16.9kGy gamma irradiation induced a 100-1000 fold reduction on the ability of IAPV to cause mortality after injections. This result opens avenues toward rearing pathogen-free bumblebees and towards eliminating the risks of pathogen spillover to native wild bee species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Meeus
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Hadi Mosallanejad
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jinzhi Niu
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Meeus I, de Miranda JR, de Graaf DC, Wäckers F, Smagghe G. Effect of oral infection with Kashmir bee virus and Israeli acute paralysis virus on bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) reproductive success. J Invertebr Pathol 2014; 121:64-9. [PMID: 25004171 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2014.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2014] [Revised: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 06/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV) together with Acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV) and Kashmir bee virus (KBV) constitute a complex of closely related dicistroviruses. They are infamous for their high mortality after injection in honeybees. These viruses have also been reported in non-Apis hymenopteran pollinators such as bumblebees, which got infected with IAPV when placed in the same greenhouse with IAPV infected honeybee hives. Here we orally infected Bombus terrestris workers with different doses of either IAPV or KBV viral particles. The success of the infection was established by analysis of the bumblebees after the impact studies: 50days after infection. Doses of 0.5×10(7) and 1×10(7) virus particles per bee were infectious over this period, for IAPV and KBV respectively, while a dose of 0.5×10(6) IAPV particles per bee was not infectious. The impact of virus infection was studied in micro-colonies consisting of 5 bumblebees, one of which becomes a pseudo-queen which proceeds to lay unfertilized (drone) eggs. The impact parameters studied were: the establishment of a laying pseudo-queen, the timing of egg-laying, the number of drones produced, the weight of these drones and worker mortality. In this setup KBV infection resulted in a significant slower colony startup and offspring production, while only the latter can be reported for IAPV. Neither virus increased worker mortality, at the oral doses used. We recommend further studies on how these viruses transmit between different pollinator species. It is also vital to understand how viral prevalence can affect wild bee populations because disturbance of the natural host-virus association may deteriorate the already critically endangered status of many bumblebee species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Meeus
- Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University, Coupure 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Joachim R de Miranda
- Department of Ecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Sciences, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, Belgium
| | | | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Crop Protection, Ghent University, Coupure 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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