Don't know about viruses, but would doubt that it would - microsporidian
spores very different from a virus.
However, as we've looked at viruses along with Army and Dave Wick, we are
getting hints of things beekeepers use that may 1) reduce viruses, and 2)
other common treatments for bee health that seem to actually antagonize
viruses.
All still too fragmentary and unreplicated for posting, but as more
beekeepers send samples and tell us what they are using (depends on honesty), we
think we can eventually tell you which supplements are useful, which are
not, which might be harmful.
Last year, I tried to get NHB to fund a study of pollen supplements -
thought it would be wise to do the Consumer's Reports thing, see which, if any
actually improved bee health (as evidenced by reduced pathogen loads,
viruses). Seemed to me that lots of beekeepers are spending lots of money using
products on the say so of the manufacturers/distributors. But, the
proposal was rejected. So, we'll continue to see product reviews by the
producers or hired by the producers, not by any independent party.
Looks like its going to be citizen science - those beekeepers who want to
know will find a way to get the answer - if they're interested enough.
However, to be of use, it has to be more than I used it, I liked it.
Bit of a placebo effect seems to go along with these products.
Jerry
***********************************************
The BEE-L mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned
LISTSERV(R) list management software. For more information, go to:
http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html
Access BEE-L directly at:
http://community.lsoft.com/scripts/wa-LSOFTDONATIONS.exe?A0=BEE-L
|