Bees: Physiology, Immunity and Developmental Biology
A special issue of Insects (ISSN 2075-4450). This special issue belongs to the section "Social Insects and Apiculture".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2026 | Viewed by 1278
Special Issue Editors
2. Doctoral Program in Microbial Genomics, National Chung Hsing University and Academia Sinica, Taichung, Taiwan
Interests: bee biology; microbiology; insect biochemistry and physiology
2. Research Center of Deep Technology in Beekeeping and Bee Products for Sustainable Development Goals (SMART BEE SDGs), Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
3. Center of Excellence in Microbial Diversity and Sustainable Utilization, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Interests: microbiome; pathogens; bees; microbes
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Bees are essential pollinators with complex biological systems. Their physiology includes specialized adaptations for flight, pheromone-based communication, and efficient foraging. Their immune system is innate, using mechanisms like antimicrobial peptides and phagocytosis to fight pathogens. Developmental biology in honey bees is regulated by diet—especially royal jelly—and hormones such as juvenile hormone and ecdysone, which determine caste differentiation and guide metamorphosis.
However, global bee populations are in decline due to multiple stressors. Key factors include pathogen infections (e.g., Varroa destructor mites, viruses), pesticide exposure (particularly neonicotinoids), habitat loss, climate change, and nutritional stress from monoculture agriculture. These pressures compromise immunity, disrupt development, and reduce colony survival, posing serious threats to both ecosystems and agriculture.
Dr. Ming-Cheng Wu
Dr. Terd Disayathanoowat
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- bees
- physiology
- immunity
- development biology
- bee declining factors
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