Nosema apis
Quick Summary
Nosema is a genus of parasitic, single-celled organisms belonging to the phylum Microsporidia. These organisms infect host cells, where they reproduce asexually before forming spores.
One species, Nosema apis, is a significant pathogen of honeybees. It specifically targets the gut lining of worker bees, causing a severe form of dysentery known as nosema disease. This disease can lead to varying degrees of paralysis and is a serious concern for bee populations. Another species, N. bombycis, causes the epidemic disease pébrine in silkworms. Louis Pasteur identified Nosema spores as the cause of pébrine in 1865 and recommended sanitation and destruction of infected colonies for control.12
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- Nosema
Another species, N. apis, attacks the gut epithelium of honeybees (especially workers) and causes nosema disease, a serious form of dysentery in animals.
Read MoreAnother species, N. apis, attacks the gut epithelium of honeybees (especially workers) and causes nosema disease, a serious form of dysentery in animals.
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colony collapse disorderSuspected causes(parasitic fungus) Nosema ceranae and N. apis and the invasive varroa mite (Varroa destructor).
Read More(parasitic fungus) Nosema ceranae and N. apis and the invasive varroa mite (Varroa destructor).
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beekeepingDiseases…disease, caused by the microsporidian Nosema apis, is the most serious disease of adult bees. It is widespread, causes heavy losses in honey production, and severely weakens colonies. The external symptoms of bees with nosema disease are not apparent. The disease is transmitted from adult to adult by ingestion of…
Read More…disease, caused by the microsporidian Nosema apis, is the most serious disease of adult bees. It is widespread, causes heavy losses in honey production, and severely weakens colonies. The external symptoms of bees with nosema disease are not apparent. The disease is transmitted from adult to adult by ingestion of…
Read More