Project Number: 1275-21000-090-02
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Sep 28, 2007
End Date: Sep 03, 2012

Objective:
The objectives of this agreement are to determine the effects of pathogens and pesticides on honey bee health. We propose to conduct pathogenicity experiments with specific pathogens recently identified and linked to colony collapse disorder (CCD). Additionally, sequencing of the genomes of two microsporidain species (Nosema apis and N. ceranae) is proposed under this agreement.

Approach:
Honey bees will be exposed to viruses, bacteria, fungi or pesticides and monitored for effects including longevity. Interactions between pathogens and pesticides will be explored by exposing bees to pesticides and pathogens in specific pairs. Fluvalinate and coumaphos will be tested along with newly identified bee pathogens to determine if either act alone or in combination to impact bee health. The sequencing of the Nosema genomes will be accomplished through collaboration with the 4-5-4 sequencing center.