>
> > "but it's not clear why the removal of a small amount of hemolymph
> would have this effect".


Surprisingly, a recent paper found that such removal does indeed have an
apparent strong effect upon DWV replication:
Haemolymph removal by the parasite Varroa destructor can trigger the
proliferation of the Deformed Wing Virus in mite infested bees (Apis
mellifera), contributing to enhanced pathogen virulence.

>I didn't take notes, but from memory: it seems that the fat bodies are
> strongly involved in the bee's immune system..., and with several
> other important functions
>

Correct--so it's likely a safe assumption that digestion of the fat bodies
would have a profound adverse effect upon the bee.

>
> >extra-oral digestion (injecting digestive fluids into their host to break
> down the tissues, and then eating/drinking those tissues).
>

This is a feeding method commonly employed by arachnids--such as splders.
And yes, after such extra-oral digestion, the mite would be expected to
then suck up a mixture of digested fat bodies AND some haemolymph.

-- 
Randy Oliver
Grass Valley, CA
www.ScientificBeekeeping.com

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