queen honey bees, genetic diversity, honeybees

Pesticides Could Mean Less Genetic Diversity in Bees

In 2006, the arrival of the unexplainable, unexpected colony collapse disorder spooked enough individuals in the United States and beyond into taking notice of the plight of honey bees and various other pollinators, such as monarch butterflies, hummingbirds, and native wild bee species. While some debated the veracity of one specific cause being the reason…

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honeybee virus defenses, colony health, Sydney

Scientist Reports Key Findings in Honeybee Antiviral Defenses

Dr. Laura Brutscher, a honeybee researcher with a doctorate in immunology and microbiology, recently published a study in the journal Scientific Reports detailing the mechanisms honey bees use in order to fight viruses. According to Brutscher, “This project has taken a lot of patience, time, and perseverance, so it’s personally validating to know that my…

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