Detection and Discovery of Pathogens Associated with Colony Collapse Disorder in Honey Bee Colonies
PAm has undertaken a significant project with Dr. Joseph DeRisi, a molecular biologist at UCSF's Mission Bay Campus. This project allows the application of the latest in DNA microarray technology to understanding the viruses, diseases and pathogens present in honey bee colonies. DeRisi's lab specializes in objective evaluations seeking solutions to problems of unknown origin. With the PAm project, DeRisi will follow a large commercial beekeeping operation over the course of an entire year, sampling weekly to understand background pathogens. Should colonies begin to collapse, then samples from failing colonies can be compared against healthy colonies to identify the causal organisms. DeRisi's project will utilize Viro-chip and ultra-deep sequencing technologies. In addition, the Nosema ceranae and N. apis genomes will be sequenced.
Developing quick tests for bee health
As a testament to credibility CDFA places in the leadership of PAm, CDFA awarded one of its first Specialty Crop Block Grants to PAm to explore in-field testing for bee health. PAm is undergoing a serious of interviews with beekeepers nationwide to better understand current methods for assessing bee health and developing a “wish list” for quick tests that could yield the most benefit in management practices. The interview process thus far has yielded the simple fact that beekeepers do not truly have the objective tools they need to determine if a hive is healthy or not. Furthermore, current evaluation methods are not predictive of the possibility of future hive collapse. PAm is establishing relationships with scientists throughout the country in an effort to find the expertise and laboratory facilities available for beekeeper access for testing purposes and to identify laboratories capable of developing precise in-field tests.
Assisting in start-up of the UCD Bee Lab
With Susan Cobey’s move from Ohio State to UCD in 2007, UCD’s Bee Lab once again has become active. PAm’s contribution has helped fund a work-study student and to purchase supplies for the lab. Cobey’s expertise is in genetics and bee breeding. Her program is aimed at restoring genetic diversity is honey bee stock. She will re-introduce into genetic lines the diversity that has been bred out over many years of breeding for maximum honey production. By increasing the gene pool within breeding stock, honey bees will be better able to cope with the devastating parasites and pathogens that have decreased the availability of robust, healthy hives for pollination.