New research that includes the help of a Husker could be key to protecting honey bees.
48% of the colonies managed by beekeepers across the U.S. were lost in 2022.
The Varroa mite is a major threat that regularly triggers catastrophic colony loss.
But Husker entomologist Troy Anderson and a team led by researchers at LSU have found a drug treatment that stimulates honey bees’ immune systems.
That dramatically strengthens their protection against viruses spread by Varroa mites.
According to the FDA, these bees are big moneymakers for the U.S.
In 2019 alone, the USDA says they made 157 million pounds of honey, valued at over $339 million.
They’re also critical as crop pollinators. The FDA says bee pollination accounts for about $15 billion in added crop value.
Source - https://www.klkntv.com
