Search Results (221)

Deformed wing virus (DWV) is a major contributor to honey bee colony losses, making effective monitoring essential for apiary management. Traditional DWV detection relies on hazardous RNA extraction followed by RT-qPCR, creating barriers for widespread surveillance. We developed an immunocapture RT-qPCR (IC-RT-PCR) method for screening DWV-A infections by capturing intact virus particles from bee homogenates using immobilized antibodies. Validation demonstrated strong correlation with TRIzol^®-based extraction (r = 0.821), with approximately 6 Ct reduced sensitivity, consistent with other published immunocapture methods. Performance was adequate for moderate–high viral loads, while TRIzol^® showed superior detection for low-dose infections. Laboratory-produced reverse transcriptase showed equivalent performance to commercial enzymes, providing cost savings. IC-RT-PCR eliminates hazardous chemicals and offers a streamlined workflow for surveillance screening where the safety and cost benefits outweigh the sensitivity reduction. This method provides a practical alternative for large-scale DWV-A surveillance programs, while TRIzol^® remains preferable for low-level detection and diagnostic confirmation. Full article

Honey bees are essential pollinators for the ecosystem and food crops. However, their health and survival face threats from both biotic and abiotic stresses. Fungi, microsporidia, and bacteria might significantly contribute to colony losses. Therefore, rapid and sensitive diagnostic tools are crucial for effective disease management. In this study, molecular assays were developed to quickly and efficiently detect the main honey bee pathogens: Nosema ceranae, Aspergillus flavus, Paenibacillus larvae, and Black queen cell virus. In this context, new primer pairs were designed for use in quantitative Real-time PCR (qPCR) reactions. Various protocols for extracting total nucleic acids from bee tissues were tested, indicating a CTAB-based protocol as the most efficient and cost-effective. Furthermore, excluding the head of the bee from the extraction, better results were obtained in terms of quantity and purity of extracted nucleic acids. These assays showed high specificity and sensitivity, detecting up to 250 fg of N. ceranae, 25 fg of P. larvae, and 2.5 pg of A. flavus DNA, and 5 pg of BQCV cDNA, without interference from bee DNA. These qPCR assays allowed pathogen detection within 3 h and at early stages of infection, supporting timely and efficient management interventions. Full article

Over the past years, increasing attention has been drawn to the adverse effects of agricultural pesticide use on pollinators, with honeybees being especially vulnerable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of residues detectable and/or quantifiable of neonicotinoid pesticides and other pesticides in biological materials (bees, bee brood, etc.) and beehive products (honey, pollen, etc.) applied as seed dressings in rapeseed and sunflower plants in two growing seasons (2020–2021) in fields located in three agro-climatic regions in Romania. The study involved the comparative sampling of hive products (honey, pollen, adult bees, and brood) from experimental and control apiaries, followed by pesticide residue analysis in an accredited laboratory (Primoris) using validated chromatographic techniques (LC-MS/MS and GC-MS). Toxicological analyses of 96 samples, including bees, bee brood, honey, and pollen, confirmed the presence of residues in 46 samples, including 10 bee samples, 10 bee brood samples, 18 honey samples, and 8 pollen bread samples. The mean pesticide residue concentrations detected in hive products were 0.032 mg/kg in honey, 0.061 mg/kg in pollen, 0.167 mg/kg in bees, and 0.371 mg/kg in bee brood. The results highlight the exposure of honeybee colonies to multiple sources of pesticide residue contamination, under conditions where legal recommendations for the controlled application of agricultural treatments are not followed. The study provides relevant evidence for strengthening the risk assessment framework and underscores the need for adopting stricter monitoring and regulatory measures to ensure the protection of honeybee colony health. Full article

Honey bees (Apis mellifera ligustica) are essential pollinators in both ecosystems and agricultural production. However, their populations are declining due to various factors, including pesticide exposure. Despite their importance, the reproductive castes, particularly drones, remain understudied in terms of pesticide effects. To investigate the effects of azoxystrobin and picoxystrobin on honey bee drones, the drones were exposed to different concentrations of azoxystrobin and picoxystrobin for 14 days; the drone survival, body weight, nutrient content, reproductive organs, and sperm concentration were assessed. Results showed that exposure to both fungicides caused a significant reduction in drone survival rates, with survival rates decreasing progressively as the duration of exposure increased. Compared to the control group, the body weights of drones in all treatment groups were significantly lower on days 7 and 14. Nutrient analysis revealed that low concentrations of azoxystrobin and picoxystrobin increased protein levels, while free fatty acid content decreased significantly in all treatment groups. No significant changes were observed in the total carbohydrate content. Morphological examination of reproductive organs showed that the lengths of the mucus glands and seminal vesicles in drones were significantly shorter in the treatment groups compared to the control group. Furthermore, exposure to azoxystrobin and picoxystrobin resulted in a significant decline in sperm concentration in the drones. These findings indicate that azoxystrobin and picoxystrobin have adverse effects on the health and reproductive capacity of honey bee drones. The present study highlights the need to reassess the risks posed by these fungicides to pollinators, particularly given the critical role of drones in maintaining the genetic diversity and resilience of honey bee colonies. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of these effects and explore potential mitigation strategies. Full article

The tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris (TPB), (Palisot de Beauvois), and the western tarnished plant bug (WTPB), Lygus hesperus, Knight, are major agricultural pests that cause significant damage to a wide range of crops in the southeastern and southwestern United States. Flonicamid (commercial name: Carbine 50WG) is generally effective against various sap-feeding pests, including both L. hesperus and L. lineolaris. This study evaluated the toxicity of flonicamid on third-instar nymphs and adults of both Lygus species under laboratory conditions. Two bioassay methods were used: spray application to assess both contact and oral toxicity, and dipping to evaluate oral toxicity. Results showed that L. hesperus was significantly more susceptible to flonicamid than L. lineolaris across both bioassay methods. While no significant differences in toxicity were observed between spray and dipping assays, third-instar nymphs exhibited significantly higher sensitivity than adults in both species. The addition of piperonyl butoxide (PBO), a known inhibitor of cytochrome P450-monooxygenases (P450s), significantly enhanced the toxicity of flonicamid, suggesting that P450 enzyme plays a critical role in its detoxification. Sublethal exposure to flonicamid also induced increased P450 activity in both species. These findings provide valuable insights into the differences in susceptibility between L. lineolaris and L. hesperus to flonicamid and indicate that P450-mediated detoxification is critical for flonicamid metabolism. Such insights are valuable for early resistance monitoring and optimizing flonicamid application in integrated pest management programs. Full article

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are major pollinators, playing a critical role in global food production, biodiversity, and ecosystem stability. However, their populations are increasingly threatened by multiple interacting stressors, including pesticide exposure. Among these, agricultural insecticides and anti-Varroa acaricides such as dinotefuran and amitraz can persist in hive matrices, resulting in chronic and combined exposure. This study investigates the low lethal (LC₁₀ and LC₃₀) effects of these compounds, individually and in combination, on honey bee survival, immune function, oxidative stress responses, detoxification pathways, and hypopharyngeal gland morphology. Both pesticides negatively affected honey bee health at low lethal concentrations, with dinotefuran showing higher toxicity. Exposure led to the reduced survival, suppression of vitellogenin expression, and dysregulation of genes related to antioxidant defense, immunity, and detoxification. Additionally, high concentrations of dinotefuran and its combination with amitraz impaired hypopharyngeal gland morphology. Notably, co-exposure resulted in synergistic toxic effects, exacerbating physiological damage beyond individual treatments. These findings emphasize the potential risks of combined exposure to agricultural and beekeeping pesticides. A more comprehensive risk assessment and stricter regulations are urgently needed. Full article

Bats, as key ecological players, interact with a diverse array of organisms and perform essential roles in ecosystems, including pollination, pest control, and seed dispersal. However, their populations face significant threats from habitat contamination, particularly from microplastics (MPs). This study introduces a novel, efficient, and cost-effective method for visualizing transparent microplastics using ultraviolet (UV) light. By employing handheld UV flashlights with a wavelength range of 312 to 400 nm, we enhance the detection of MPs that may otherwise go unnoticed due to color overlap with filtration membranes. All necessary precautions were taken during sampling and analysis to minimize the risk of contamination and ensure the reliability of the results. Our findings demonstrate that the application of UV light significantly improves the visualization and identification of MPs, particularly transparent fibers. This innovative approach contributes to our understanding of plastic contamination in bat habitats and underscores the importance of monitoring environmental pollutants to protect bat populations and maintain ecosystem health. Full article

The growing recognition of animal sentience has led to notable progress in European Union animal welfare legislation. However, a significant inconsistency remains: while mammals, birds, and cephalopods are legally protected as sentient beings, honeybees (Apis mellifera)—despite robust scientific evidence of their cognitive, emotional, and sensory complexity—are excluded from such protections. This manuscript examines, from an interdisciplinary perspective, the divergence between emerging evidence on invertebrate sentience and current EU legal frameworks. Honeybees and cephalopods serve as comparative case studies to assess inconsistencies in the criteria for legal recognition of sentience. Findings increasingly confirm that honeybees exhibit advanced cognitive functions, emotional states, and behavioral flexibility comparable to those of legally protected vertebrates. Their omission from welfare legislation lacks scientific justification and raises ethical and ecological concerns, especially given their central role in pollination and ecosystem stability. In general, we advocate for the inclusion of Apis mellifera in EU animal welfare policy. However, we are aware that there are also critical views on their introduction, which we address in a dedicated paragraph of the manuscript. For this reason, we advocate a gradual and evidence-based approach, guided by a permanent observatory, which could ensure that legislation evolves in parallel with scientific understanding, promoting ethical consistency, sustainable agriculture, and integrated health under the One Health framework. This approach would meet the concerns of consumers who consider well-being and respect for the environment as essential principles of breeding, and who carefully choose products from animals raised with systems that respect welfare, with indisputable economic advantages for the beekeeper. Full article

This study explores how private sector initiatives within the tourism industry can contribute to public health outcomes and Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3) through sustainable agricultural practices. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines a systematic literature review with an in-depth case study, the research examines how integrated strategies—such as pesticide-free farming, biodiversity enhancement, and edible landscape design—can reduce environmental health risks, improve nutritional quality, and promote local resilience. A series of sustainability interventions are analyzed using key performance indicators (KPIs) related to pesticide use, organic production, pollinator conservation, and community engagement. The findings reveal that business-led sustainability models can support systemic change when grounded in clear metrics and cross-sector collaboration. Although the absence of pre-2019 baseline data and direct health outcome measurements limit causal inference, the study provides a valuable blueprint for aligning private enterprise practices with global health and sustainability objectives. The implications are relevant for policymakers, hospitality operators, and public health stakeholders aiming to foster synergies between tourism, agriculture, and well-being. Full article

Bee pollination is essential for terrestrial ecosystems and crop production. However, the species richness of wild bees and other pollinators has declined over the past 50 years, with some species experiencing dramatic decreases. A key factor in maintaining bee health is their gut microbiota, which plays an essential role in digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and resistance to pathogens. Disruptions to this microbiota can severely impact bee health, rendering them more susceptible to diseases and environmental stressors. Glyphosate, one of the most widely used herbicides, has been extensively studied for its effects on various organisms, with increasing evidence indicating its potential to disrupt bee microbiota. This review explores recent research on the effects of glyphosate and its formulations on the gut microbiota of honeybees and bumblebees. It examines species-specific responses, methodological approaches, and broader ecological implications. While evidence indicates that glyphosate can alter the gut microbiome in some bee species, its effects vary depending on exposure conditions, species, and the composition of microbial communities. Additionally, glyphosate formulations containing surfactants may exacerbate these effects. Given the endocrine-disrupting properties of glyphosate, further research is needed to understand the long-term consequences of exposure, especially its impact on hormonal regulation and bee resilience to environmental stressors. Full article

Abiotic stressors threaten honeybee health, jeopardizing pollination services critical to agriculture and biodiversity. Here, we identified the AmVgR gene, which encodes a member of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family, and examined its function in the response of Apis mellifera to adverse abiotic stress. AmVgR exhibited peak expression in adult workers and was significantly upregulated under heat, cold, heavy metal, and pesticide exposure. RNAi-mediated knockdown of AmVgR suppressed antioxidant enzyme activities, elevated the levels of oxidative damage markers, and downregulated antioxidant gene expression. Crucially, AmVgR silencing reduced survival under H₂O₂-induced oxidative stress, indicating its essential role in stress resilience. Our findings highlight AmVgR as a key regulator of antioxidant defense during development and environmental adaptation in Apis mellifera. This study provides mechanistic insights into bee stress physiology and proposes AmVgR as a novel target for enhancing pollinator protection strategies. Further research should elucidate its molecular pathways and translational applications in mitigating abiotic stress impacts. Full article

Honeybees are vital for pollination and the overall health of ecosystems. Since the 18th century, the intricate biology of honeybees has been a subject of scientific inquiry. Understanding their biological and behavioral characteristics is essential for effective beekeeping, honey production, and ecosystem sustainability. This review examines the environmental impact and management practices on the health of local honeybees in Algeria, focusing on Apis mellifera intermissa and Apis mellifera sahariensis. We summarize research findings on genetic diversity, morphometric traits, behavioral characteristics, and adaptation of local honeybees. Additionally, we discuss the threats posed by abiotic and biotic stressors and highlight the importance of conservation and sustainable management. The reviewed studies indicate that environmental factors significantly influence the behavioral characteristics and adaptation of local honeybees. Notably, the hygienic behavior of A. m. intermissa contributes to their resistance against diseases and the Varroa destructor mite. Further research in these areas is important for enhancing our understanding of honeybee health and population dynamics in Algeria, thereby informing strategies for sustainable beekeeping practices. Full article

Honey bees and other pollinators are key to functioning natural and managed ecosystems. However, their health is threatened by many factors, including pesticides. Spraying fungicides during flowering of fruit trees is widespread even though it directly exposes pollinators to these fungicides. Here, we report a series of experiments designed to understand how the combination of propiconazole and carbendazim, marketed in China as Chunmanchun^®, affects honey bee health. With an acute oral toxicity of 23.8 μg a.i./bee over 24 h in the laboratory, we considered the acute mortality risk from normal Chunmanchun^® applications as relatively low. However, our comprehensive studies revealed other diverse effects: Chunmanchun^® reduced memory after classic conditioning by approximately 25% and altered the activity of protective enzymes and the composition of the honey bees’ gut microbiota. Specifically, the genus Lactobacillus was decreased by ~13%, and Bartonella and Snodgrassella were increased by ~10% and ~7.5%, respectively. The gut metabolome was also disrupted in diverse ways, possibly as a functional consequence of the microbiome changes. Thus, we demonstrated numerous sublethal effects of the combination of propiconazole and carbendazim, which adds to the growing evidence that agrochemicals and fungicides in particular can harm pollinator health in subtle ways that are not captured in simple mortality assays. Full article

Essential oils have been utilized in the health, learning/memory, and agricultural fields, but not much is known about the biological activity of their individual components. Terpinyl acetate is a p-menthane monoterpenoid commonly found in cardamom, pine, cajeput, pine needle, and other essential oils. Using a cell culture model system, we found that terpinyl acetate is a potent and specific inhibitor of mitochondrial ATP production, suggesting it might function as a plant toxin. Remarkably, however, terpinyl acetate was not cytotoxic because cells switched to glycolysis to maintain ATP levels. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that terpinyl acetate might be employed to benefit plant survival by modulating metabolism/behavior of plant pollinators such as the honey bee. This hypothesis was tested by investigating terpinyl acetate’s effect on honey bee foraging. Free-flying honey bee flower color choice was recorded when visiting a blue-white dimorphic artificial flower patch of 36 flowers. The nectar–reward difference between flower colors was varied in a manner in which both learning and reversal learning could be measured. Terpinyl acetate ingestion disrupted reversal learning but not initial learning: this change caused bees to remain faithful to a flower color longer than was energetically optimal. Full article

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) play a crucial role in global food production through the pollination of various crops. These vital insects are susceptible to a range of viral pathogens that can disrupt their normal behavior and physiology, ultimately affecting colony dynamics and survival. There are diverse viruses that infect honey bees at different life stages, with a year-round prevalence. There are multiple pathways through which viruses can be transmitted among colonies. Notably, there is also a lack of commercial treatments against viral infections in bees, but some promising strategies exist to mitigate their negative effects, including vector control, and the implementation of good beekeeping practices and biosecurity measures. While methods for treating infected colonies have garnered attention, they receive less focus compared to aspects like transmission methods and seasonal prevalence of viruses. This article aims to review the aforementioned strategies in light of the available literature. It presents succinct and practical approaches categorized based on their potential direct or indirect effects on viruses, providing beekeepers and researchers with an overview of both fully established and still-developing methods. Controlling the ectoparasitic Varroa destructor mite population, which significantly impacts viral prevalence and virulence in bees, is crucial for reducing infections. Practical approaches such as selectively breeding honey bee populations resistant to viruses and ensuring proper nutrition are important strategies. Moreover, genetic methods have also been proposed and tested. The article not only emphasizes these methods but also discusses knowledge gaps and suggests future solutions to improve the health and productivity of honey bee colonies. Full article