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Honey as an eDNA Reservoir: Detecting Spiroplasma apis and Spiroplasma melliferum in Australian honey bee populations
Gopika Bhasi1, Gemma Zerna1, Travis Beddoe1
1Department of Ecological, Plant and Animal Science, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora 3083,Australia; La Trobe Institute for Sustainable Agriculture and Food, La Trobe University, Bundoora 3083, Australia.
Abstract:
Spiroplasma apis and Spiroplasma melliferum are often overlooked pathogens that harm honey bee health. This study used environmental DNA (eDNA) from honey to identify these pathogens. We amplified DNA from 135 honey samples across Australia using Spiroplasma-specific PCR primers. The results revealed a high prevalence of S. melliferum (70%) across Australia, in contrast to S. apis, which was detected in 13% of samples. The findings indicate that S. melliferum is widespread in Australia, potentially threatening honey bee health. We present the first phylogenetic analysis of Australian Spiroplasma apis and Spiroplasma melliferum isolates, with Spiroplasma apis showing high similarity with reference strains from the USA, Belgium, and Taiwan, whereas Spiroplasma melliferum displays broader genetic diversity.
Insights
Spiroplasma melliferum is a widespread honey bee pathogen in Australia, found in 70% of samples. Spiroplasma apis was less common (13%), but both impact honey bee health. This study analyzed their prevalence and genetics.
Area of Science:
- Apiculture and Veterinary Entomology
- Microbiology and Pathogen Detection
- Environmental DNA (eDNA) Analysis
Background:
- Spiroplasma apis and Spiroplasma melliferum are significant pathogens affecting honey bee health.
- Their prevalence and genetic diversity in Australia remain underexplored.
- Honey serves as a potential reservoir for detecting these bee pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Spiroplasma apis and Spiroplasma melliferum in Australian honey bee populations.
- To conduct the first phylogenetic analysis of Australian Spiroplasma isolates.
- To assess the potential threat posed by these pathogens to Australian honey bees.
Main Methods:
- Environmental DNA (eDNA) was extracted from 135 honey samples collected across Australia.
- Spiroplasma-specific PCR primers were used to amplify pathogen DNA.
- Phylogenetic analysis was performed on detected Spiroplasma isolates.
Main Results:
- Spiroplasma melliferum exhibited a high prevalence (70%) across Australia.
- Spiroplasma apis was detected in a smaller proportion of samples (13%).
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed Spiroplasma apis isolates were similar to international strains, while S. melliferum showed greater genetic diversity.
Conclusions:
- Spiroplasma melliferum is a widespread pathogen in Australia, posing a significant risk to honey bee health.
- The genetic diversity of S. melliferum suggests potential for adaptation and varied virulence.
- Further research is needed to understand the transmission dynamics and full impact of these Spiroplasma species on apiculture.
