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Spiroplasma apis, a new species from the honey-bee Apis mellifera
Abstract:
Two spiroplasma strains (B31 and B39) recovered from diseased honey-bees (Apis mellifera) in southwestern France were similar in biochemical, serological and pathological properties. The organisms grew at 30 degrees C, required cholesterol for growth, fermented glucose, catabolized arginine and produced a film and spot reaction. The two spiroplasmas were serologically indistinguishable but were related to serogroup IV spiroplasmas, which had been previously isolated from flower surfaces and from insects. The isolates were distinct from the three previously established species of Spiroplasma and from other presently known serogroups. The G + C content of the DNA from strain B31 was 30 +/- 1 mol %. Both B31 and B39 strains were associated with a lethal infection ("May disease") of the honey-bee. On the basis of the characterization presented here, it is proposed that these spiroplasmal pathogens of bees and allied strains be classified as a new species, Spiroplasma apis, the type strain of which is B31 (ATCC 33834).
Insights
Two Spiroplasma strains from diseased honey-bees were identified as a new species, Spiroplasma apis. These pathogens caused lethal infections, highlighting the need for further research into bee diseases.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Insect Pathology
- Apiculture
Background:
- Honey-bee colonies are threatened by various pathogens.
- Spiroplasma are known insect-associated bacteria with diverse ecological roles.
- Previous Spiroplasma isolates were associated with plants and insects, but not specifically honey-bee pathogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize two Spiroplasma strains isolated from diseased honey-bees (Apis mellifera) in France.
- To determine the taxonomic relationship of these strains to known Spiroplasma species.
- To propose a new species classification for these honey-bee pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Biochemical characterization (growth conditions, fermentation, catabolism).
- Serological analysis (antigenic properties, relationship to existing serogroups).
- Pathological assessment in honey-bees and DNA G+C content determination.
Main Results:
- The two Spiroplasma strains (B31 and B39) exhibited identical biochemical, serological, and pathological properties.
- Both strains required cholesterol for growth, fermented glucose, and catabolized arginine.
- The isolates were distinct from known Spiroplasma species and serogroups, though related to serogroup IV.
Conclusions:
- The characterized Spiroplasma strains represent a novel species, proposed as Spiroplasma apis.
- Spiroplasma apis is identified as a causative agent of lethal honey-bee infections, termed 'May disease'.
- This classification provides a basis for understanding and managing Spiroplasma-related honey-bee diseases.