The trypanosomatid (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) parasites in bees: A review on their environmental circulation, impacts and implications.

ABSTRACT: Trypanosomatids, obligate parasites capable of impacting insects' hindgut, have recently obtained considerable attention, especially about their effects on bees. While Crithidia mellificae and C. bombi were initially discovered and studied in honey bees and bumblebees, respectively, molecular techniques revealed Lotmaria passim as the predominant trypanosomatid in honey bees globally. New species like C. expoeki and C. acanthocephali have also been identified. These parasites have complex life cycles involving various host developmental stages and are transmitted horizontally within and outside colonies through direct contact, oral interactions, and contaminating flowers with infected faeces. The impact of trypanosomatids on honey bee colony health remain

SUBMITTER: Tiritelli R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11803887 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature