This paper was recently discussed as a function of the COLOSS Spring
Survivors Task Force Meeting:



https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/eva.13533



From the abstract:



To optimize natural selection-based programmes towards these objectives, we
suggest designs based on a combination of nature-driven phenotypic
differentiation and human-directed selection of traits. Such a dual strategy
aims at allowing field-realistic evolutionary approaches towards the
survival of V. destructor infestations and the improvement of honey bee
health.



A few other interesting nuggets IMHO:



Thus, exposing local stock to the selective pressure of V. destructor can
lead to survival because of the presence of resistance or tolerance genes,
to favourable environmental conditions, to beekeeping management or to their
combination. To date, there has been no recipe for how to achieve the
desired goal or for the conditions that facilitate survival in every
situation.



. interventions could, however, be counterproductive if they occur too early
for those colonies that might have survived, despite a temporary drop in
vitality. Determining when to intervene and interrupt a potential adaptation
process to protect neighbouring colonies or apiaries is a compromise with no
known optimal solution at this time.



If the harnessing of natural processes to select surviving colonies can
alleviate the workload because of the lack of need to identify the traits
allowing for survival and associated phenotype measurement, the approach is
not exempt from all work and bound to many implementation challenges that
are underreported or unforeseen by the literature.



. human intervention to decrease collateral damage during the selection
process, optimize genetic diversity and ensure the desirability of the
surviving population for beekeepers of human neighbours is required in most
cases. These precautions will increase the probability of success and
acceptance of natural selection-based programmes. In addition to the
possibility of taking advantage of conventional breeding tools to promote
the survivability and desirability of the selected stock, these programmes
would also benefit from an increased understanding of the factors
contributing to success or failure.


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