1. Effects of genetic diversity on honey
bee colony phenotype
We are currently testing whether colonies with higher
genetic diversity (as a result of the colony's queen mating with
many males) have a reduced prevalence of disease. The experimental
design employs the instrumental insemination technique, where
we can inseminate queens with semen from one male (resulting in
colonies with low genetic diversity) or many males (resulting
in colonies with high genetic diversity). We then inoculate the
colonies with various parasites and pathogens, and later measure
the levels of disease within them. We have shown that genetic
diversity significantly lowers the likelihood that colonies will
contract severe chalkbrood infections, and we are continuing to
test this effect using more economically important diseases, such
as Varroa mites, American foulbrood, and tracheal mites.
2. Genetic structure of honey bee colonies
We have consolidated the primary literature that used modern
genetic tools to estimate the genetic structure of honey bee colonies
that were headed by naturally mated queens. We have thus compiled
a large data base that is continuing to expand. We have made this
data base available by request as an MSEXCEL file, and would also
welcome any additions to the database that you may have. Please contact
us via email if you wish
to add any new genotyping data.
3. Worker-queen interactions during queen duels
We have been investigating how workers behave toward virgin
queens. Virgin queens fight to the death after their mother queen
departs in a swarm. The final victor of these queen "duels"
reclaims the nest as her own. There are many complex interactions
between queens and the workers that may benefit the survival of certain
queens over others. We are just starting to uncover the important
factors of this process.
4. Control of the Small Hive Beetle
We are just begining a project to develop new control measures
for the SHB. The only recourse for beekeepers infested with SHB is
to use pesticides that are toxic to honey bees, namely coumophos strips
and permethrin soil drench. Currently, there is no available method
to control larvae from consuming the hive substrate or to reduce the
rate of egg laying by adult females.We hope to make available a new
biopesticide that will control not only the adult stage but also the
destructive larval stage.
5. Comparison of different bee stocks across habitats
The development of new varroa mite-resistant stock is one
of the most exciting developments in bee management since the pest
was introduced almost 20 years ago. We are currently conducting a
state-wide research project that directly compares the efficacy of
the Russian stock with the standard Italian stock. We have established
bee yards in each of the Mountain, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain regions
of the state and are taking monthly samples of both parasitic mites.
Our goal is to determine if there are any environmental interactions
with the different bee stocks for mite levels and overall productivity.
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...Current
research projects 