2007-02-12 07:51:43 · 2 answers · asked by john f 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Zoology
http://agnews.tamu.edu/stories/ENTO/Mar0399a.htm
See the above link for an explanation about the varroa mite infestations of the mid-90's, mentioned in another answer. The latest round of deaths may be related, but also are partly not understood yet. My opinion is that we are going to find degredation of a natural system, combined with the mite (plus possible another disease organism) mutually responsible.
Added a link to a news story I just found, further detailing what is happening right now:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070212/ap_on_sc/dying_bees
It seems that in all cases, the bees have weakened immune systems, and suffer from a host of different disease conditions.
2007-02-12 08:07:06 · answer #1 · answered by Hauntedfox 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Currently the european honeybee, Apis mellifera, is underattack by an imported pest, the varroa mite, there are treatments, such as apistan strips that can be used to treat. however if used atthe wrong time, this will make your honey unsafe for sale. swarmed or "escaped" colonies are unable to control these pests on their own and are at risk of complete loss of the colony.
2007-02-12 15:57:34 · answer #2 · answered by Bio-student Again(aka nursegirl) 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋