Occurrence of Nosema ceranae in Arkansas honey bees

Occurrence of Nosema ceranaein Arkansas honey bees Abstract

Nosema ceranae is an invasive microsporidian pathogen recently identified to be infecting Apis mellifera. N. ceranae has been linked to a reduction in overwintering succes, reduced honey production, and has been associated with colony collapse. Our study was conducted, with funds granted via the USDA Farm Bill, in order to determine the prevalence and distribution of N. ceranae, among Arkansas honey bee colonies. Molecular diagnostics were performed on honey bee samples collected statewide, from 47 different Arkansas counties, to detect N. ceranae as well as additional parasites and pathogens. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers specific to each pathogen and parasite were used to successfully detect their presence or absence.