Diversity and Functional Potential of Yeasts Inhabiting Honey Bee Drones.

ABSTRACT: The honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) is a eusocial insect widely known for its role in pollination and plant biodiversity. Diverse microorganisms, including both beneficial and pathogenic, colonize bees and play important roles in the overall hive health. Microorganisms with biocontrol properties are natural modulators of honey bee microflora. Since most studies have focused on the characterization of worker bee-associated microbes, there is a lack of information about the drones' microbial environment. In this study, we identified cultivable yeasts from different stages of honey bee drones collected in Lithuania. Sealed larvae hosted the widest variety of yeasts. Metschnikowia species were detected across all developmental stages of drones. The assessment of functionality revea

SUBMITTER: Lapinskaite V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12654413 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature