Antimicrobial resistance and prevention of bacterial brood diseases in the beekeeping industry

The pollination performed by honey bees is estimated to contribute annually ~$4 billion to Canadian agriculture. Unfortunately, high colony death rates have been repeatedly reported by beekeepers. Infectious diseases (e.g. Varroa, Nosema, American foulbrood [AFB] and European foulbrood [EFB]) are important causes of honey bee mortality. AFB and EFB are the most important bacterial diseases of honey bee brood causing significant economic losses in beekeeping industry. Integrated pest management practices include inter alia use of certain antibiotics in Canada. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is documented in bacterial strains causing AFB and suspected in EFB. The ultimate goal of this multifaceted research program is to establish evidence-based feasible control measures for AFB and EFB that will result in a judicious use of the effective antibiotics and a reduced incidence of disease outbreaks; consequently, this will result in decreased use of antibiotics and reduced development and spread of AMR in western Canadian apiculture. Improved honey bee health will lead to better pollination services and increased agricultural crop yields, while at the same time, robust honey bee health will increase honey yields and decrease honey bee colony losses which will benefit Canadian beekeepers.

Faculty Supervisor:

Elemir Simko

Student:

Partner:

Saskatchewan Beekeeper's Development Commission;British Columbia Blueberry Council;Prairie Diagnostic Services;Canadian Honey Council

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Sustainability & the Environment; Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Agriculture and Food

University:

University of Saskatchewan

Program: