--- On Mon, 5/11/09, randy oliver <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
 
> Dr Adrian Wenner demonstrated that the introduction of the
> varroa mite can
> cause the complete extirpation of the honey bee from an
> island upon which
> they had thrived for 150 years.  John is correct in that
> there is no reason
> whatsoever to think that a parasite cannot completely cause
> the extinction
> of a novel host.

Hello,

I don’t think Adrian demonstrated that stated above.
More accurately, Adrian demonstrated that a parasite can cause the extinction of a species lacking in genetic diversity.   

Adrian M. Wenner, 
The exciting potential of remote feral bee colonies for Varroa coexistence
http://www.beesource.com/pov/wenner/varroaabstract.htm.

Quote from the paper:

“Feral colonies composed of mixed genetic traits have survived for several years, but colonies of genetically uniform bees perished in an island ecosystem.” 

Adrian also states:
“Feral colonies located remote from beekeeper activity could now have strains quite resistant to varroa mites and should be investigated.”

Best Wishes
Joe




      

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