Detection of pathogen spillover between managed honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) and native pollinators (Bombus spp.) through quantification of RNA viruses
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Date
2017
Authors
Robson-Hyska, Cole
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Abstract
RNA viruses are a contributor to recent honey bee disappearances and may have spilled over to bumble bees from honey bees (HB). This hypothesis is addressed by comparing the prevalence and intensity of seven viruses in bumble bees captured in proximity to and isolation from managed honey bee colonies. Additionally, sampling method for bees and different storage variables are compared for accuracy in estimating viruses in field-caught specimens. Prevalence was lower in isolated bumble bees for DWV, BQCV and SBV and higher for IAPV. KBV, ABPV and CBPV infections were rare. Virus intensity was higher in HB-exposed sites than unexposed sites for one virus and never higher in bumble bees than in honey bees. This suggests that spillover is likely, but viral dynamics are complicated and movement may occur in both directions. Additionally, specimens should be stored at -80⁰C with no medium recommended for relative preservation of host and viral RNA.
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Keywords
Entomology, Pathogen spillover, Bee, Virus