Mike wrote:
 Different strains have varying virulence against different families of
insects (lepidoptera,coleoptera, hymenoptera, etc.  Second these fungi are
often very
effective in a controlled setting but  can have variable response because
of changing environmental conditions during field evaaluation
which makes it a challenge for commercial development.

Response:
Thanks for the informative response about entomopathogenic fungi. It is an
excellent response. I might add that in most of these setting the fungus
spores are applied in a way to get in/onton the host such as spray or
added to the diet. In the case of honey bees, I would like to point out:

1) it would be interesting to know if the fungus is killing mites on bees
or killing also developing mites in the capped brood cells.
2) To improve efficacy, it is going to be a challenge to develop a method
of application that would allow the fungus spores infect the capped cells
before capping!  or we might need mulitple applications.
3)  I would like to see some data on the side effects on honey bees
4) We need also data about impacts on the spores' counts in produced honey


For sure what is published so far it is encouraging. Mike's pragmatic view
is well supported by me.


Medhat

Medhat Nasr, Ph. D.
Provincial Apiculturist
Crop Diversification Centre North

17507 Fort Road
Edmonton, AB, Canada T5Y 6H3
Tel: (780) 415-2314    Fax: (780) 422-6096
Mailto:[log in to unmask]

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