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Updated: Jan 23, 2026

Collection and Identification of Pollen from Honey Bee Colonies
Published on: January 19, 2021
Modeling Pollen-Mediated Virus Spread in Bee Colonies as a Classroom Activity
Veronica E Snow1, Donna M Becker1, Josh S Sharp1
1Department of Biology, Northern Michigan University, Marquette, MI 49855.
Abstract:
Using a hands-on approach, this activity introduces students to the concept of viral spread and honey bee pathogenesis by illustrating pathogen transmission throughout the hive. This viral transmission activity, designed for introductory biology, virology, or microbiology classes, can be used in laboratory or lecture settings. Students are provided with information on viral transmission and hive structure. Students then retrieve "pollen" and distribute it to the colony. A UV light passed across students' hands determines which hive was infected, indicating the viral transmission pathways among bees. Students then discuss how viruses impact bees, how long it would take an infected hive to succumb to the pathogen, and what can be done to prevent viral spread.
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