May 2, 2016Study: mites affecting bee colony health
Recent research conducted by the University of Maryland and USDA revealed that honey bee colonies in the U.S. are in decline due in part to the ill effects of voracious mites, fungal gut parasites and a variety of debilitating viruses. Findings showed that the Varroa mite, a major honey bee pest, is more common than previously thought and is closely linked to several damaging viruses. Also, the previously rare Chronic Bee Paralysis Virus has jumped in prevalence since detected in 2010.
In North Dakota, Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring announced that approximately $100,000 is available to fund state research and promotion of honey bees. The five priority areas are: colony collapse, Varroa mite control, honey bee viruses, pathogen presence/ management, and other problem-solving areas of interest.
Source: National Potato Council
