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Animals
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Bee Biology, Pathology and Management
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Bee Biology, Pathology and Management

A special issue of Animals (ISSN 2076-2615).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2024) | Viewed by 13380

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Jevrosima Stevanović

E-Mail Website1 Website2 Website3
Guest Editor
Department of Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
Interests: Apis mellifera; Nosema ceranae; Lotmaria passim; Varroa destructor
Dr. Maria Michalczyk

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
Interests: Apis mellifera; Nosema ceranae; Starmerella apis; Lotmaria passim; Varroa destructor

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Humanity would experience astonishing improvements if it could imitate honey bees even for just one day. The reason for this is not only the diligent and persistent work of the bees, the perfection in their mutual communication, division of labor, economy, and altruism for the purpose of the survival and progress of the entire colony, but also their complete compliance with the conditions of nature. In order to be convinced of this, one must get to know the world of bees. That is why this Special Issue of Animals is dedicated to honey bees and aims to include works on all aspects important for their survival and sustainability in ecosystems (honey bee physiology, immunity, behavior, genetics, diversity, phylogeny, ecology, conservation, honey bee diseases, pathogens, and pests, influence of environmental pollution on honey bees, epigenetics, toxicology, pollination, management of honey bee colonies).

Prof. Dr. Jevrosima Stevanović
Dr. Maria Michalczyk
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • Apis mellifera biology
  • ecology
  • vulnerability
  • conservation
  • health
  • diseases
  • pathogens and pests
  • sustainable management
  • pollination
  • apiculture

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

17 pages, 3306 KiB  
Article
Salivary Cystatin-L2-like of Varroa destructor Causes Lower Metabolism Activity and Abnormal Development in Apis mellifera Pupae
by He Zhou, Xinle Duan, Chaoxia Sun, Hongji Huang, Mei Yang, Shaokang Huang and Jianghong Li
Animals 2023, 13(23), 3660; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13233660 - 27 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1196
Abstract
Varroa destructor injects a salivary secretion into honeybees during their feeding process. The salivary secretion plays a vital role in mite–bee interactions and is the main cause of honeybee illness. To determine the biological function of cystatin-L2-like, one of the components of V. [...] Read more.
Varroa destructor injects a salivary secretion into honeybees during their feeding process. The salivary secretion plays a vital role in mite–bee interactions and is the main cause of honeybee illness. To determine the biological function of cystatin-L2-like, one of the components of V. destructor salivary secretion, its gene expression in mites during the reproductive phase and dispersal phase was quantified using RT-qPCR, respectively. Moreover, the E. coli-expressed and -purified cystatin was injected into the white-eyed honeybee pupae, and its effects on the survival, the weight of the newly emerged bee, and the transcriptome were determined. The results showed that cystatin was significantly upregulated in mites during the reproductive phase. Cystatin significantly shortened the lifespan of pupae and decreased the weight of the newly emerged bees. Transcriptome sequencing showed that cystatin upregulated 1496 genes and downregulated 1483 genes in pupae. These genes were mainly enriched in ATP synthesis, the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and cuticle structure and function. Cystatin comprehensively downregulated the metabolism of carbohydrates, fatty acids, and amino acids, and energy production in the pupae. The downregulation of metabolic activity could save more nutrients and energy for V. destructor, helping it to maximize its reproduction potential, implying that the mite could manipulate the metabolism of host bees through the injected salivary secretion. The results provide new insights into mite–bee interactions, providing a basis for related studies and applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bee Biology, Pathology and Management)
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14 pages, 2731 KiB  
Article
Effects of Genetic Origin of Honeybees and Climate on Prevalence and Infestation Levels of Varroa
by Claudia García-Figueroa, Francisco Javier Ramírez-Ramírez, Laura Yavarik Alvarado-Avila and Miguel Enrique Arechavaleta-Velasco
Animals 2023, 13(20), 3277; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13203277 - 20 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1229
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of honeybee genetic origin, climate type and the interactions between these variables on the prevalence and infestation levels of Varroa in a large population of honeybee colonies (n = 1134). For each colony, [...] Read more.
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of honeybee genetic origin, climate type and the interactions between these variables on the prevalence and infestation levels of Varroa in a large population of honeybee colonies (n = 1134). For each colony, the morphotype, haplotype and climate type were determined. No differences between the Africanized, European and Hybrid morphotypes were found for the prevalence and infestation levels of Varroa (p > 0.05). Differences between honeybee haplotypes were found for the prevalence of Varroa (p < 0.05), and the prevalence was higher in the African haplotype than in the European haplotype. No differences between honeybee haplotypes were found for the infestation levels of Varroa (p > 0.05). Differences were found between climate type for the prevalence and infestation levels of Varroa (p < 0.05): the temperate sub-humid climate had a higher prevalence and higher infestation levels than the semi-warm climate and the warm sub-humid climate. Correlations between the infestation levels of Varroa and mean annual temperature, mean annual precipitation, winter precipitation and Lang index were found. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bee Biology, Pathology and Management)
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14 pages, 497 KiB  
Article
Conservation of Local Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) in Southeastern Turkey: A Preliminary Study for Morphological Characterization and Determination of Colony Performance
by Atilla Oztokmak, Gonca Ozmen Ozbakir and Oznur Çaglar
Animals 2023, 13(13), 2194; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13132194 - 4 Jul 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1542
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological traits and colony performance parameters of local honeybees of the Adıyaman province for future breeding programs. The study was carried out in 2019–2020; a total of 39 colonies were obtained from 13 apiaries [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to investigate the morphological traits and colony performance parameters of local honeybees of the Adıyaman province for future breeding programs. The study was carried out in 2019–2020; a total of 39 colonies were obtained from 13 apiaries in 5 districts, which represented local honeybees, and they were placed in an isolated area. At the same time, 835 worker bees representing local honeybees were assessed for 21 morphological features. There was a difference between the district groups according to the morphological traits (p < 0.05). In terms of the morphological characteristics of honeybees, the correct classification rate to their original groups was determined to be 65.1%. The difference between the district groups was statistically significant regarding the number of frames covered with bees, brood area, and hygienic behavior (p < 0.05). The average weight at the emergence of queens according to district groups and flight activity was found to be significant according to the periods (p < 0.01). As a result, homogeneous honeybees can be found in provinces when considering morphological characteristics. Although colony performance values are low, it is essential to protect the bees’ genetic material given their ability to adapt to arid climates and insufficient flora. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bee Biology, Pathology and Management)
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14 pages, 4131 KiB  
Article
Workers of Apis mellifera Reared in Small-Cell Combs Show Higher Activity of the Proteolytic System in Hemolymph than Workers Reared in Standard-Cell Combs in Laboratory Cage Tests
by Piotr Dziechciarz, Aneta Strachecka, Grzegorz Borsuk and Krzysztof Olszewski
Animals 2023, 13(8), 1368; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13081368 - 16 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1821
Abstract
The aim of the study was to compare the activities of proteases and their inhibitors in the hemolymph of honeybee workers reared in small-cell combs (SMC) and standard-cell combs (STC) in laboratory cage tests. The analyses conducted in laboratory conditions facilitated assessment of [...] Read more.
The aim of the study was to compare the activities of proteases and their inhibitors in the hemolymph of honeybee workers reared in small-cell combs (SMC) and standard-cell combs (STC) in laboratory cage tests. The analyses conducted in laboratory conditions facilitated assessment of the impact of the comb cell width (small vs. standard) along with eliminating the influence of many environmental factors on the results. The width of the comb cells in which the workers were reared had a significant effect on the protein concentrations and proteolytic system activities in the hemolymph. Irrespective of the age of the workers, higher protein concentrations were found in the hemolymph of the SMC workers. In turn, the activities of proteases and their inhibitors in the hemolymph of 1-day-old bees were higher in the STC workers. In older bees, aged 7–21 days, activity was higher in the SMC workers. The role of the considerable cell width variability in natural combs that were built without the use of an artificially produced wax foundation is worth investigating. It is highly probable that the impact of the comb cell width on the features of workers reared in these combs modifies the age polyethism in the worker caste as well. The investigation results of one-season studies of honeybees could be seriously affected by random factors. To reduce the risk of these effects, it is advisable to continue experiments over a few consecutive years. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bee Biology, Pathology and Management)
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12 pages, 5408 KiB  
Article
Tropilaelaps mercedesae Infestation Is Correlated with Injury Numbers on the Brood and the Population Size of Honey Bee Apis mellifera
by Tial C. Ling, Patcharin Phokasem, Chainarong Sinpoo, Panuwan Chantawannakul, Kitiphong Khongphinitbunjong and Terd Disayathanoowat
Animals 2023, 13(8), 1318; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13081318 - 12 Apr 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2267
Abstract
Tropilaelaps mercedesae, one of the most devastating parasitic mites of honey bee Apis mellifera hosts, is a major threat to honey products by causing severe damage to honey bee colonies. Here, we recorded injury numbers caused by T. mercedesae to different body parts [...] Read more.
Tropilaelaps mercedesae, one of the most devastating parasitic mites of honey bee Apis mellifera hosts, is a major threat to honey products by causing severe damage to honey bee colonies. Here, we recorded injury numbers caused by T. mercedesae to different body parts of the larval, pupal, and crippled adult stages of honey bee A. mellifera. We evaluated the relationship between infestation rate and injury numbers per bee for both larvae and pupae. We also noted the total bee numbers per beehive and examined the relationship between the infestation rate and population size. T. mercedesae infested all developmental stages of honey bees, with the highest injury numbers in the abdomens of bee pupae and the antennas of crippled adult bees. Although larvae received more injury numbers than pupae, both infestation rate and injury numbers decreased as the larval stage progressed to the pupal stage. The infestation rate increased as the population size per beehive decreased. This study provided new perspectives to the understanding of changes in the effects of T. mercedesae infestations on different developmental stages of honey bees. It also showed useful baseline information for screening honey bee stock that might have high defensive behaviors against mite infestation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bee Biology, Pathology and Management)
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22 pages, 2044 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Beehive Proximity, Human Activity and Agricultural Intensity on Diptera Diversity in a Mediterranean Mosaic of Agroecosystems, with a Focus on Pest Species
by Barbara Sladonja, Ivana Tlak Gajger, Mirela Uzelac, Danijela Poljuha, Clara Garau, Nediljko Landeka, Miroslav Barták and Giovanni Bacaro
Animals 2023, 13(6), 1024; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061024 - 10 Mar 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2291
Abstract
Diptera, with their participation in pollination, significantly contribute to the maintenance of plant diversity, and they also have great potential for assessing habitat health and preserving it. A decline in their abundance and diversity has been recorded worldwide as a consequence of biotic, [...] Read more.
Diptera, with their participation in pollination, significantly contribute to the maintenance of plant diversity, and they also have great potential for assessing habitat health and preserving it. A decline in their abundance and diversity has been recorded worldwide as a consequence of biotic, abiotic, and anthropic alterations. In addition to pollinators, these orders include agricultural and forestry pests, which are a threat to both cultivated and wild plants that are very important to the economy. Many pests have escaped from their native areas, and it is important to monitor their spread to implement sustainable means of control. Our study provides baseline information on Diptera and Vespidae diversity in the Mediterranean mosaic of agroecosystems, giving information on the importance of human influence on insect diversity. We carried out an insect inventory in Istria, Croatia, using a set of traps placed in the proximity of beehives. This study was also important in determining the presence of pests and newly introduced species. A total of 94 species from 24 families were recorded—7 important agricultural pests of Diptera and 17 new records for Croatia. The correlation between species diversity and environmental and anthropogenic factors leads to the conclusion that total insect species richness, pest species richness, and the first findings depend on human activities. The number of honeybee colonies negatively correlated with species richness, while anthropic influence positively affected total and pest species richness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bee Biology, Pathology and Management)
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11 pages, 2271 KiB  
Article
A Preliminary Study on “Personalised Treatment” against Varroa destructor Infestations in Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Colonies
by Rajmund Sokół and Maria Michalczyk
Animals 2023, 13(6), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13060987 - 8 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1898
Abstract
The requirement for the protection of bee colonies against Varroa destructor invasions has been noted by many breeders and is included as an aspect of the development of beekeeping. This research aimed to check the effect of the development of a colony exposed [...] Read more.
The requirement for the protection of bee colonies against Varroa destructor invasions has been noted by many breeders and is included as an aspect of the development of beekeeping. This research aimed to check the effect of the development of a colony exposed to laying eggs (brood surface) by queen bees with similar chemical potential (sisters) on the effect of a preparation combating V. destructor depending on the number of mites found in a given colony. We chose this as a standard model of conduct that treats each bee colony as one organism subjected to individual parasite control. For this purpose, we created a bee colony with a mother-of-one breeding line and fertilised drones from one colony. Infection with V. destructor occurred naturally and uncontrollably. Without interfering with the colony’s development, the frame insulator helped each colony’s brood (mothers’ reproductive potential) and the initial and final individuals from the mites themselves. The study was carried out in four species (two control species and two species with up to 20 and over 21 mites, respectively). Treatments with amitraz to combat damage were divided into four treatment subgroups: two treatments every four days or four treatments every two days. We observed the number of individuals that were protected in all subgroups in the average brood area. The reproductive potential of the sisters’ mothers did not change after the treatments with amitraz, which indicated that amitraz did not affect the delegation of egg laying. The invasion rate was also tracked relative to the control group, which allowed us to conclude that a two-time treatment with amitraz reduced the frequency of mites and a four-time treatment checked the effectiveness. Tailoring the control of V. destructor in bee colonies may be an effective measure in the fight against this parasite. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bee Biology, Pathology and Management)
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