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Diversity and Functional Potential of Yeasts Inhabiting Honey Bee Drones

Vilija Lapinskaitė1, Paulina Bartkutė1, Juliana Lukša-Žebelovič1

  • 1Laboratory of Genetics, State Scientific Research Institute Nature Research Centre, Akademijos Str. 2, LT-08412 Vilnius, Lithuania.

Microorganisms
|November 27, 2025
PubMed

Insights

This study identifies beneficial yeasts in honey bee drones, revealing their potential for biocontrol and hive health. Certain yeast species show strong autoaggregation and biofilm formation, crucial for maintaining a healthy bee microbiome.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Entomology
  • Apiculture

Background:

  • Honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) are vital for pollination and biodiversity.
  • Microorganisms influence honey bee health, but drone-associated microbes are understudied.
  • Biocontrol microbes can modulate the honey bee gut microbiota.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify cultivable yeasts from different developmental stages of honey bee drones.
  • To assess the functional properties of identified yeasts, focusing on biocontrol potential.
  • To explore the role of drone-associated yeasts in hive health.

Main Methods:

  • Isolation and identification of cultivable yeasts from honey bee drone larvae, pupae, and adults.
  • Screening yeasts for biocontrol properties, autoaggregation, hydrophobicity, and biofilm formation.
  • Analysis of yeast diversity across different drone developmental stages.

Main Results:

  • A diverse range of yeasts was identified, with the highest variety found in sealed drone larvae.
  • Metschnikowia species were present in all drone developmental stages.
  • Metschnikowia pulcherrima and M. fructicola showed significant biocontrol properties, autoaggregation, and hydrophobicity.
  • Starmerella apis and M. reukaufii exhibited high autoaggregation (>60%) and hydrocarbon adherence.
  • Starmerella yeasts demonstrated strong biofilm-forming capabilities.

Conclusions:

  • The study highlights the importance of yeasts inhabiting honey bee drones for hive health.
  • Identified yeasts with beneficial traits, such as biocontrol and biofilm formation, are potential candidates for supporting honey bee health.
  • Further research into drone-associated yeasts can lead to novel strategies for bee health management.
Keywords:
Apis melliferaautoaggregationbiocontrolbiofilmshoney beeshydrophobicityyeasts

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