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From:
Max Watkins <[log in to unmask]>
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Date:
Fri, 27 Apr 2007 14:53:25 +0100
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I quite agree with the sentiments of Diotima's reply. Nosema ceranae is a
virulent pathogen and there is no doubt about it, it kills bees. 

I talked about this parasite at the ABF conference in Kentucky two years
ago; in Europe it has been found in many countries and it is associated with
large numbers of hive deaths - especially where it has been most thoroughly
researched, in Spain. Microscopically you cannot tell N.ceranae from N.apis.
DNA analysis has to be performed. Sampling in other countries indicates that
N.ceranae is widespread, being recently identified in Spain, France, Italy,
Germany and other countries. Monitoring and sampling continues and my
company, Vita, is helping with that.

Nosema ceranae infection can kill colonies but I don't think there is any
evidence so far that says categorically that this infection is the real and
only killer. Is it the "final straw" polishing off the bees once they have
already been severely weakened by something else or is it a very potent
pathogen which overcomes healthy bees in one fell swoop?

It is certainly a problem which the bees could do without and although we
are in R&D with a safe alternative that might help fight or prevent these
infections, Nosema ceranae on its own has yet to be proved as THE cause of
CCD.

Extrapolation from such a small data pool in this latest study is not
feasible. More sampling and analysis is needed before an accurate judgement
can be made. Personally, I believe "CCD" is an effect of several interacting
factors, which may differ in expression from place to place.

You are very fortunate in the US to have the back-up and resources of the
Apiary Inspectors of America and the USDA working on the case. From what we
see it's clear they are committed to finding an answer and are doing a great
job collecting as much relevant information as possible. 
In Europe, in general, because of the geography and politics there isn't
that coordinated network that you have but we do have a Working Group
examining the prevention of bee losses in Europe which aims to do that. Our
researchers too are struggling to find solutions.

Let's hope we can determine the culprit(s) soon so that fewer bee colonies
will have to perish.

Best to All,

Max

 

Dr Max Watkins
Director
Vita (Europe) Limited
21/23 Wote Street
Basingstoke
Hampshire RG21 7NE
UK

Tel.:   +44 (0)1256 473 177
Fax:   +44 (0)1256 473 179
Mobile: +44 (0) 7767 815 370

e-mail:  [log in to unmask]
web: http://www.vita-europe.com

Skype: maxwatkins

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