Prevalence of Adult Honey Bee (Apis mellifera L.) Pests and Pathogens in the Five Beekeeping Regions of Mexico.

ABSTRACT: Mexico is a major honey producer, but not much information exists about the health status of honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) in the country. This study was conducted to determine the sanitary status of adult honey bees in Mexico's five beekeeping regions. Samples from 369 apiaries were diagnosed to identify pathogens such as Varroa destructor, which was quantified, Acarapis woodi, Nosema spp., and five viruses. Colonies were also inspected for the presence of the small hive beetle (SHB), Aethina tumida. Varroa destructor was found in 83.5% of the apiaries, with the Pacific Coast region having the highest prevalence (>95%) and rates (4.5% ± 0.6). Acarapis woodi was detected in only one apiary from the Pacific Coast, whereas Nosema spp.

SUBMITTER: Correa-Benitez A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10251999 | biostudies-literature | 2023 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature