Prospective large-scale field study generates predictive model identifying major contributors to colony losses.

ABSTRACT: Over the last decade, unusually high losses of colonies have been reported by beekeepers across the USA. Multiple factors such as Varroa destructor, bee viruses, Nosema ceranae, weather, beekeeping practices, nutrition, and pesticides have been shown to contribute to colony losses. Here we describe a large-scale controlled trial, in which different bee pathogens, bee population, and weather conditions across winter were monitored at three locations across the USA. In order to minimize influence of various known contributing factors and their interaction, the hives in the study were not treated with antibiotics or miticides. Additionally, the hives were kept at one location and were not exposed to potential stress factors associated with migration. Our results show that a linear association

SUBMITTER: Kielmanowicz MG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4395366 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature