Occurrence of Select Parasites and Pathogens in Arkansas Honey Bees

Nosema ceranae is an invasive microsporidian pathogen recently identified to be infecting Apis mellifera. N. ceranae has been linked to a reduction in overwintering success, reduced honey production, and has been associated with colony collapse. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and distribution of N. ceranae in Arkansas honey bee colonies.  Molecular diagnostics were performed on honey bee samples collected statewide, from 34 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.