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Seasonal trends of the ABPV, KBV, and IAPV complex in Italian managed honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) colonies
Giovanni Cilia1, Elena Tafi2, Laura Zavatta1
1Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment (CREA-AA), Council for Agricultural Research and Agricultural Economics Analysis, Via di Corticella 133, 40128, Bologna, Italy.
Abstract:
Acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV), Kashmir bee virus (KBV), and Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV) usually persist as covert infections in honey bee colonies. They can cause rapid bee mortality in cases of severe infection, often associated with high Varroa destructor infestation, by which they are transmitted. In various countries, these viruses have been associated with colony collapse. Despite their potential danger, these viruses are often disregarded, and little information is available on their occurrence in many countries, including Italy. In 2021, 370 apiaries representing all of the Italian regions were investigated in four different months (June, September, November, and March) for the presence of ABPV, KBV, and IAPV. IAPV was not found in any of the apiaries investigated, whereas 16.45% and 0.67% of the samples tested positive for ABPV and KBV, respectively. Most ABPV cases occurred in late summer-autumn in both northern and southern regions. We observed a scattered pattern of KBV-positive colonies that did not allow any seasonal or regional trends to be discerned. Differences observed among regions and months were potentially related to the dynamics of varroa infestation, viral genetic variations, and different climatic conditions resulting in variations in bee behaviour. This study improves our understanding of the circulation of bee viruses and will contribute to better disease prevention and preservation of bee health.
Insights
Acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV) and Kashmir bee virus (KBV) were detected in Italian honey bee apiaries, while Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV) was absent. This study highlights the prevalence of these bee viruses and informs disease prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- * Virology
- * Apiculture
- * Entomology
Background:
- * Covert infections of Acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV), Kashmir bee virus (KBV), and Israeli acute paralysis virus (IAPV) are common in honey bees.
- * These viruses, transmitted by Varroa destructor mites, can cause significant bee mortality and colony collapse.
- * Limited data exists on the prevalence of these viruses in Italy.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To investigate the occurrence and prevalence of ABPV, KBV, and IAPV in honey bee colonies across Italy.
- * To identify potential seasonal or regional patterns in viral circulation.
- * To provide data for improved bee disease prevention and health management.
Main Methods:
- * Survey of 370 apiaries across all Italian regions in June, September, November, and March 2021.
- * Detection of ABPV, KBV, and IAPV using molecular methods.
- * Analysis of viral prevalence in relation to region, season, and Varroa destructor infestation dynamics.
Main Results:
- * IAPV was not detected in any samples.
- * ABPV was detected in 16.45% of samples, primarily in late summer and autumn.
- * KBV was detected in 0.67% of samples, with a scattered distribution.
- * Regional and monthly variations suggest links to Varroa infestation, viral genetics, and climate.
Conclusions:
- * ABPV and KBV are circulating in Italian honey bee populations, posing a potential threat to bee health.
- * The absence of IAPV warrants further investigation.
- * Findings contribute to understanding bee virus dynamics and inform targeted disease prevention efforts.
