Genetic variation in honey bees (Apis mellifera) from central and southern United States

We studied the genetic diversity of honey bees, Apis mellifera L., from the central, south central and southern United States by DNA sequencing a portion of the mtDNA COI and COII intergenic regions, from primarily feral and managed colonies of hobbyist and sideliner beekeepers. Samples from several U.S. queen breeder colonies were also subjected to the same DNA sequencing analysis. Of the 469 samples sequenced, a total of 33 mitotypes were observed which represent all four A. mellifera lineages known to exist in the United States. Those lineages include: (C, 14 mitotypes) Eastern European; (M, 5 mitotypes) Western European; (O, 4 mitotypes) Middle Eastern; and African (A, 10 mitotypes). Interestingly, we found evidence of the ‘M’ lineage (A. m. mellifera the “Dark Bee”) still existing even though this subspecies is not commercially available. Furthermore, we also found representatives of the 'O’ lineage (A. m. syriaca) which has not been imported into the US since the late 1800’s. Only 6 mitotypes of the 'C' lineage was detected from the queen breeders which provides additional evidence that survivor stocks are persisting. Determining the genetic variation of honey bees in the feral as well as in hobbyist and sideliner beekeeper colonies, we will be able to compare and contrast them with what we find in our current study of honey bees from commercial and queen breeder colonies. Distinct lineage/mitotypes that we find could be used for future research to see if there are any specific trait differences that can be used for selective breeding programs.