First detection of European honey bee (Apis mellifera) viruses in the bee louse (Braula coeca), and comparison to viruses in Varroa destructor mites

European honey bees (Apis mellifera) are undeniably important in our modern agricultural system.  However, there are still some gaps in our knowledge about pests and pathogens living within honey bee colonies.  The “bee louse” (Braula coeca) is a wingless fly inquiline of honey bee colonies.  This study shows the first detection of common honey bee viruses in braulids.  It also compares virus profiles among braulids, Varroa destructor mites, and honey bees within the same colonies.