The injection to emerging adult workerbees with fluvalinate doses ranging from 1 femtomol to 1 nanomol per individual resulted in a reduction of haemolymph carbohydrate concentrations, particularly at the lowest dose ...The injection to emerging adult workerbees with fluvalinate doses ranging from 1 femtomol to 1 nanomol per individual resulted in a reduction of haemolymph carbohydrate concentrations, particularly at the lowest dose 1 hour after injections. At the same time, a large increase was observed for triacylglycerols and to a much lesser extent for steroids and phospholipids with 0.1 picomol per bee. By contrast, fatty acids, steroids and triacylglycerols exhibited a depress at the higher dose. Most responses were thus biphasic, showing that much attention should be paid to the effects of very low doses of pesticide.展开更多
Intra-abdominal injection of amitraz(0.25 nmol per honeybee,i.e.,approx 2.3 nmol/g)to emerging worker bees,in vivo,led to a significant hypertrehalosemia(300-400%)followed by a hyperglucosemia(≈600%).Maxima were reac...Intra-abdominal injection of amitraz(0.25 nmol per honeybee,i.e.,approx 2.3 nmol/g)to emerging worker bees,in vivo,led to a significant hypertrehalosemia(300-400%)followed by a hyperglucosemia(≈600%).Maxima were reached at 0.5 and 2h,respectively.A strong negative correlation between glucosemia and trehalosemia appeared after injection of pure phentolamine (1 nmol per bee),suggesting stimulation of trehalase activities.Simultaneous administration of the α-blocker at≥0.25 nmol per individual suppressed the hyperglycemic response of amitraz. The formamidine pesticide thus likely acts on the honeybee α-aminergic system.1989 Academic Press,Inc.展开更多
An investigation on the proteome of drone egg development of native Italian bee （Apis mellifera ligustica Spinola,1806） was carried out in order to prove up the characteristics in protein expression and regulation a...An investigation on the proteome of drone egg development of native Italian bee （Apis mellifera ligustica Spinola,1806） was carried out in order to prove up the characteristics in protein expression and regulation at egg stage and open out the molecular mechanism of the development. The experiment was carried out by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. The results showed that there were 200, 242 and 233 proteins in a wide rang of molecular weight （12.42-169.60 kDa） and in a relatively narrow scope of pI （4.50-9.00） detected on day 1, day 2 and day 3, respectively, during the developmental process of the drone egg. Meanwhile, 164 protein spots were resolved at all the images （i.e., the protein was consistently expressed） along with the egg development, among which 7 were significantly up-expressed （P 〈 0.05） and 4 were significantly down-expressed （P 〈 0.05） while 79 had no significant differences （P 〉 0.05）. In addition, the specific proteins expressing proteins on day 1, day 2 and day 3 were 11, 18 and 18, respectively. Besides, 17 proteins expressed both on day 1 and day 2 but silenced on day 3, and 43 proteins expressed both on day 2 and day 3 but silenced on day 1, while only 8 proteins expressed both on day 1 and day 3 but silenced on day 2. The results indicate that 2-d-old eggs are at the most active expressional stage in the development of drone egg. The protein expressing at all images suggests that it should be indispensable for drone egg development, but their expression pattern is different. The proteins expressing at a specific age of egg suggest that specific proteins are needed in different developmental stages to regulate. And there are more house-keeping proteins in the developmental process of the drone egg than that of worker egg, and it will provide more targets for gene improvement.展开更多
The time-course and dose-related action of amitraz (AMZ) on gut lipids of worker honeybees were examined over 3 hours following in vivo injections of 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 nmols of pesticide per bee. Significant decrease...The time-course and dose-related action of amitraz (AMZ) on gut lipids of worker honeybees were examined over 3 hours following in vivo injections of 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 nmols of pesticide per bee. Significant decreases were observed at 30-45 min with 0.25 nmols per bee, for phospholipids, fatty acids, steroids and triacylglycerols. However increases were observed either later or with higher doses. The decreasing action observed with 0.25 nmol AMZ per bee was inhibited by simultaneous injections of the a antagonist phentolamine (from 0.25 to 2.0 nmols per bee). The toxicity of AMZ to honeybees thus likely involves the mobilization of lipids from the gut, via action of this formamidine pesticide on a-adrenoceptors.展开更多
In honeybee （Apis mellifera） colonies, queens and workers are altemative forms of the adult female honeybee that develop from genetically identical zygotes but that depend on differential nourishment. Queens and wor...In honeybee （Apis mellifera） colonies, queens and workers are altemative forms of the adult female honeybee that develop from genetically identical zygotes but that depend on differential nourishment. Queens and workers display distinct morphologies, anatomies and behavior, better known as caste differentiation. Despite some basic insights, the exact mechanism responsible for this phenomenon, especially at the molecular level, remains unclear although some progress has been achieved. In this study, we examined mRNA levels of the TOR （target of rapamycin） and Dnmt3 （DNA methyltransferase 3） genes, closely related to caste differentiation in honeybees. We also investigated mRNA expression of the S6K （similar to RPS6-p70-protein kinase） gene linked closely to organismal growth and development in queen and worker larvae （1-day and 3-day old）. Last, we investigated the methylation status of these three genes in corresponding castes. We found no difference in mRNA expression for the three genes between 1st instar queen and worker larvae; however, 3rd instar queen larvae had a higher level of TOR mRNA than worker larvae. Methylation levels of all three genes were lower in queen larvae than worker larvae but the differences were not statistically significant. These findings provide basic data for broadening our understanding of caste differentiation in female honeybees.展开更多
Plant-pollinator in teractio ns have a fundame ntal in fluence on flower evolution. Flower color signals are frequently tuned to the visual capabilities of important pollinators such as either bees or birds, but far l...Plant-pollinator in teractio ns have a fundame ntal in fluence on flower evolution. Flower color signals are frequently tuned to the visual capabilities of important pollinators such as either bees or birds, but far less is known about whether flower shape in fluences the choices of pollinators. We tested European honeybee Apis mellifera pref ere nces using novel achromatic (gray-scale) images of 12 insect-pollinated and 12 bird-pollinated native Australian flowers in Germany;thus, avoiding in flue nces of color, odor, or prior experie nee. In depende nt bees were tested with a number of parameterized images specifically desig ned to assess pref ere nces for size, shape, brightness, or the number of flower-like shapes prese nt in an image. We show that honeybees have a pref ere nee for visiti ng images of in sect-polli nated flowers and such a pref ere nee is most-likely mediated by holistic in formati on rather than by in dividual image parameters. Our results in dicate an giosperms have evolved flower shapes which in fluence the choice behavior of importa nt pollinators, and thus suggest spatial achromatic flower properties are an important part of visual signaling for plantpollinator in teractions.展开更多
In learning and memory studies on honeybees （Apis mellifera）, cold-induced narcosis has been widely used to temporarily immobilize honeybees. In this study, we investigated the effects of cold narcosis on the associ...In learning and memory studies on honeybees （Apis mellifera）, cold-induced narcosis has been widely used to temporarily immobilize honeybees. In this study, we investigated the effects of cold narcosis on the associative memories in honeybees by using the proboscis extension response （PER） paradigm. Severe impairments in memory acquisition was found when cold narcosis was performed 30 rain, instead of 1 h before training. Locomotor activities were reduced when honeybees were tested 15 min, instead of 30 rain after cold narcosis. These results indicate that cold narcosis impairs locomotor activities, as well as memory acquisition in a time-dependent manner, but by comparison no such effects on memory retrieval have yet been observed.[0]展开更多
The aim of our study was to explore whether honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) could be used as a reliable alternative to the standard mechanical devices for monitoring of air quality, in particular with respect to the con...The aim of our study was to explore whether honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) could be used as a reliable alternative to the standard mechanical devices for monitoring of air quality, in particular with respect to the concentration of the heavy metals cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and vanadium (V). We therefore tested whether the concentrations of these metals in adult honeybees and in ambient air were positively correlated, and whether differences in concentration between locations were similar for bees and air. On the basis of our measurements, conducted over a two-month period at three distinct locations in the Netherlands with each three replicate honeybee colonies placed next to mechanical monitoring devices, we concluded that a significant positive relationship between the concentrations in bees and in air could only be established for V. Also, only in the case of V, the differences between the three locations in mean concentration were similar for bees and air. Both outcomes were probably due to the relatively large range over which the concentrations of V varied, both in bees and in air, as compared to Cd and Pb. However, for V, as well as for Cd and Pb, the concentrations in ambient air were about two orders of magnitude below the established air quality standards. We therefore conclude that in the Netherlands, both variation and levels of the atmospheric concentrations of these metals are too low to establish a relationship between the concentration in bees and in air that is useful to present honeybees as an alternative to mechanical devices in monitoring of air pollution. However, in countries with larger variation and higher levels of the atmospheric concentrations of these metals, further exploration of the potential of honeybees in biomonitoring of air pollution may be worthwhile.展开更多
Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are important pollinators of flowering plants and agricultural crops contributing annually to billions of dollars in revenues to crop production. Honeybees have an average lifespan between 8...Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are important pollinators of flowering plants and agricultural crops contributing annually to billions of dollars in revenues to crop production. Honeybees have an average lifespan between 8 weeks to 5 years. Dead honeybees are abundantly available in beehives and can be utilized as an alternative source to synthesize nanoparticles. In recent years, biologically synthesized nanoparticles have been preferred over their chemical counterparts. However, honeybee-based-green synthesis of nanoparticles has not been explored yet. Herein, we report the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles from honeybees and its antibacterial activity. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles was monitored visually through a gradual change in color. Furthermore, the biosynthesized nanoparticles were confirmed and characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy. Scanning Electron Microscope was utilized to analyze the average size and morphologies of the biosynthesized nanoparticles. Subsequently, the antibacterial potential of the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles was tested against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. It was found that a distinct color change from yellow to brown in the reaction solution suggested the formation of silver nanoparticles. The biosynthesized nanoparticles exhibited absorption maxima at 430 nm. The SEM analysis confirmed the spherical and cuboidal shape of the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles with a size range between 10 - 40 nm. Furthermore, the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles exhibited strong antimicrobial potential against tested Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains by aggregating on the cell surface. This study showcases the biomedical and agricultural applications of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles from honeybee wings. .展开更多
Efficient honey production requires knowledge about the behavior of the workers and the parameters that influence the strength of the colony. In this study, the objective was to analyze the interaction between the for...Efficient honey production requires knowledge about the behavior of the workers and the parameters that influence the strength of the colony. In this study, the objective was to analyze the interaction between the foraging behavior of worker honeybees and pollen storage levels in Africanized honeybees colonies. Colonies with low pollen storage increased pollen intake rates, but this value was 15% lower than colonies with high pollen storage, demonstrating a direct relationship between the pollen storage levels and foraging activity. The difference in pollen intake rates varied according to the number of foraging honeybees and pollen load collected by each individual. Under both high and low pollen storage, colonies returned pollen storage to initial level within 16 days, suggesting that honeybees regulate pollen storage levels around a homeostatic set point. Relationship between pollen storage levels and colony brood production was also found, indicating how alterations in the behavior of each individual can affect the strength of the colony.展开更多
Since it first appeared in 2022,the phenomenon referred to as Colony Collapse Disorder(CCD)has affected several regions of Morocco to varying degrees.In order to assess the possible impact of pesticides on the appeara...Since it first appeared in 2022,the phenomenon referred to as Colony Collapse Disorder(CCD)has affected several regions of Morocco to varying degrees.In order to assess the possible impact of pesticides on the appearance of this syndrome,we conducted a study aimed at evaluating the impact of pesticide use on the emergence of this syndrome through a year-long survey involving 160 beekeepers in the Beni Mellal–Khenifra Region(BKR)who also experienced an unprecedented desertion of hives during the same period.The majority of surveyed beekeepers practice mixed(45%)or migratory beekeeping(42%)and provide supplementary feeding(83.75%)to support their bees.Nearly 37.5%of the hives are located near crops treated with pesticides,exposing the bees to these chemicals.The results showed that the majority of beekeepers reported a cessation of queen laying(74.38%),high mortality rates among worker bees(81.25%),drones(65.63%),and queens(61.88%).Abnormal behaviors such as immobility with trembling(42.50%),reduced flights(47.50%),and disoriented navigation(28.75%)were also observed.Correlation analyses indicate that proximity to treated crops significantly increases the risk of queen laying cessation(Odds Ratio 6.0)and a reduction in waggle dances(Odds Ratio 2.41).Extended foraging flights show a borderline statistical significance(Odds Ratio 2.33),suggesting a disruption of natural food sources.These results highlight the potential impact of pesticides on colony health and bee behavior,pointing out the need to adapt beekeeping practices and implement protective measures against pesticides.展开更多
Beeswax is the substance that forms the structure of a honeycomb; the bees secrete wax to build the honeycombs where to store honey.Thanks to its rich hydrophobic protective properties,the beeswax is in fact present w...Beeswax is the substance that forms the structure of a honeycomb; the bees secrete wax to build the honeycombs where to store honey.Thanks to its rich hydrophobic protective properties,the beeswax is in fact present within cosmetics and body products.Also,beeswax is used in the food industry:as a film to wrap cheese for maturing or as a food additive(E901) to give shine to the products.Exactly as the honey which it contains,beeswax is also characterized by several therapeutic properties of great interest to us; it is thought to be particularly effective in healing bruises,inflammation and burns.Recently,the interest of researchers has moved even on antimicrobial properties of beeswax although there are still few studies in the literature focused only on the action of beeswax.The few studies showed an anitimicrobic effectiveness of beeswax against overall Staphylococcus aureus,Salmonella enterica,Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger; these inhibitory effects are enhanced synergistically with other natural products such as honey or olive oil.This minireview aims to be a collection of major scientific works that have considered the antimicrobial activity of beeswax alone or in combination with other natural products in recent years.展开更多
Pollen limitation of plant reproduction occurs across Angiosperms, particularly those in patched habitats We investigated the, relationship between pollen limitation and patch variables （patch size, visitation freque...Pollen limitation of plant reproduction occurs across Angiosperms, particularly those in patched habitats We investigated the, relationship between pollen limitation and patch variables （patch size, visitation frequency） in the desert plant Hedysarum scoparium （Fabaceae）, which is an important xerophyte in the arid and semi-arid regions of Northwest China and can grow well as a pioneer plant in shifting sand dunes. We observed insect visitation to H. scoparium over two flowering seasons and estimated pollen limitation using fruit set and seed production. Our results indicate that fruit set and seed production increased significantly with pollen supplementation compared with open pollination. Hedysarum scoparium was pollinated by over 8 species of bees, with 88.4% of visits made by introduced honeybees （Apis mellifera）. Bee visitation varied significantly among the patches of habitats, but not associated with patch size of habitat. In general, pollen limitation occurred more strongly during fruit set than during seed production. The patches that received higher rates of pollinator visits were less pollen limited for fruit set. Pollen limitation for seed production, however, was not associated with pollinator visitation frequency. We conclude that pollen limitation in H. scoparium was caused by more than one reason, not just pollinator visits.展开更多
The protein composition of the egg development in the high royal jelly producing bees （Apis mellifera L.） was investigated. This pioneer study was to separate and quantify the proteins in the egg of the high royal j...The protein composition of the egg development in the high royal jelly producing bees （Apis mellifera L.） was investigated. This pioneer study was to separate and quantify the proteins in the egg of the high royal jelly producing worker bees （Apis mellifera L.） by using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis along with their three-day development. The results showed that 160, 195, and 176 proteins, with a wide range of molecular weight （17-80 KDa） and relatively narrow scope of pI （4. 00-8.40） could be detected on day 1, day 2, and day 3, respectively, during the developmental process of the egg. Meanwhile 44 protein spots were constantly detected along with the egg development. Among them 36% were in the uptrend along with the egg development, 14% were in the downtrend, and 39% were of the largest expressed volume on day 2. In addition, the specific proteins were expressed on day 1, day 2, and day 3 （89, 77, and 80, respectively）. Besides the coexistent and specific proteins, 24 proteins were expressed on day 1 and day 2, but silenced on day 3, 49 proteins were expressed on day 2 and day 3, but silenced on day 1, only 3 proteins were expressed on day 1 and day 3, but silenced on day 2. The result indicates that egg development is a sequential and complex gene controlled process, where the eggs of day 2 express the most active proteins. The coexistent proteins suggest that it is conservative and indispensable for this event. These specific proteins suggest that the different developmental stage needs specific proteins to regulate it.展开更多
Mite （Varroa destructor） is one of the most serious parasite threats to the honey bee （Apis mellifera） reared in China. The beekeepers mainly use the drug to control and kill the mite in the past years, but the ho...Mite （Varroa destructor） is one of the most serious parasite threats to the honey bee （Apis mellifera） reared in China. The beekeepers mainly use the drug to control and kill the mite in the past years, but the honey products may be contaminated and the mite is becoming drug-resistant. The main idea of this paper is to research the possibility of mite-resistant honeybee rearing by nutritional crossbreed. The larvae （Apis mellifera ligustica） are bred with the royal jelly of Apis carana carana, and then the morphological index of the worker generation, genotypic frequency and gene frequency of the MDH Ⅱ, genetic resemblance, and mite resistance are measured. The results show that： compared to the parent workers, the proboscis length, anterior wing area, the total length of the third and fourth dorsal plate of the abdomen, the length of the fourth dorsal plate of the tuberculum, the area of the sixth abdominal segment, and the area of wax mirrors are significantly different, but the differences in the brachium index, dactylus index, and wing claw are not significant. Moreover, there are some mutations in the genotypic frequency and gene frequency of the MDH Ⅱ. The mite resistance of the nutritional crossbreed worker is significantly higher. The morphological, physical, and biochemical characters, genetic resemblance, and the mite-resistant ability of the worker generation can be changed by nutritional crossbreeding. Nutritional crossbreeding can be a new way to breed the honeybee.展开更多
The stinging response thresholds of individual European and Africanized worker honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) were analyzed. Workers of each genotype performing defense (guard and soldier bees) and non-defense (nest an...The stinging response thresholds of individual European and Africanized worker honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) were analyzed. Workers of each genotype performing defense (guard and soldier bees) and non-defense (nest and forager bees) associated tasks were collected and exposed to an electric stimulus of 0.5 mA, and the time they took to sting a leather substrate was recorded. Africanized bees had significant lower thresholds of response than European bees. Guards and soldiers were faster to sting than nest and forager bees for the Africanized genotype, whereas for the European genotype, guards stung significantly faster than bees of the other three task groups. This is the first study that shows that individual bees specialized in two defensive tasks also have a lower response threshold for stinging. Our results fit a model of division of labor based on differences in response thresholds to stimuli among workers of different genotypes and task groups.展开更多
文摘The injection to emerging adult workerbees with fluvalinate doses ranging from 1 femtomol to 1 nanomol per individual resulted in a reduction of haemolymph carbohydrate concentrations, particularly at the lowest dose 1 hour after injections. At the same time, a large increase was observed for triacylglycerols and to a much lesser extent for steroids and phospholipids with 0.1 picomol per bee. By contrast, fatty acids, steroids and triacylglycerols exhibited a depress at the higher dose. Most responses were thus biphasic, showing that much attention should be paid to the effects of very low doses of pesticide.
文摘Intra-abdominal injection of amitraz(0.25 nmol per honeybee,i.e.,approx 2.3 nmol/g)to emerging worker bees,in vivo,led to a significant hypertrehalosemia(300-400%)followed by a hyperglucosemia(≈600%).Maxima were reached at 0.5 and 2h,respectively.A strong negative correlation between glucosemia and trehalosemia appeared after injection of pure phentolamine (1 nmol per bee),suggesting stimulation of trehalase activities.Simultaneous administration of the α-blocker at≥0.25 nmol per individual suppressed the hyperglycemic response of amitraz. The formamidine pesticide thus likely acts on the honeybee α-aminergic system.1989 Academic Press,Inc.
基金supported by the Special Fund of Technical Production System of the National Beekeeping Industry, the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (NYCYTX-43)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (30972148)the Special Scientific and Research Fund for Public Welfare Industry,China (nyhyzx07-041)
文摘An investigation on the proteome of drone egg development of native Italian bee （Apis mellifera ligustica Spinola,1806） was carried out in order to prove up the characteristics in protein expression and regulation at egg stage and open out the molecular mechanism of the development. The experiment was carried out by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. The results showed that there were 200, 242 and 233 proteins in a wide rang of molecular weight （12.42-169.60 kDa） and in a relatively narrow scope of pI （4.50-9.00） detected on day 1, day 2 and day 3, respectively, during the developmental process of the drone egg. Meanwhile, 164 protein spots were resolved at all the images （i.e., the protein was consistently expressed） along with the egg development, among which 7 were significantly up-expressed （P 〈 0.05） and 4 were significantly down-expressed （P 〈 0.05） while 79 had no significant differences （P 〉 0.05）. In addition, the specific proteins expressing proteins on day 1, day 2 and day 3 were 11, 18 and 18, respectively. Besides, 17 proteins expressed both on day 1 and day 2 but silenced on day 3, and 43 proteins expressed both on day 2 and day 3 but silenced on day 1, while only 8 proteins expressed both on day 1 and day 3 but silenced on day 2. The results indicate that 2-d-old eggs are at the most active expressional stage in the development of drone egg. The protein expressing at all images suggests that it should be indispensable for drone egg development, but their expression pattern is different. The proteins expressing at a specific age of egg suggest that specific proteins are needed in different developmental stages to regulate. And there are more house-keeping proteins in the developmental process of the drone egg than that of worker egg, and it will provide more targets for gene improvement.
文摘The time-course and dose-related action of amitraz (AMZ) on gut lipids of worker honeybees were examined over 3 hours following in vivo injections of 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 nmols of pesticide per bee. Significant decreases were observed at 30-45 min with 0.25 nmols per bee, for phospholipids, fatty acids, steroids and triacylglycerols. However increases were observed either later or with higher doses. The decreasing action observed with 0.25 nmol AMZ per bee was inhibited by simultaneous injections of the a antagonist phentolamine (from 0.25 to 2.0 nmols per bee). The toxicity of AMZ to honeybees thus likely involves the mobilization of lipids from the gut, via action of this formamidine pesticide on a-adrenoceptors.
基金supported by the Yunnan Government(2009CI119)Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System(Honeybee)(CARS-45-kxj14)
文摘In honeybee （Apis mellifera） colonies, queens and workers are altemative forms of the adult female honeybee that develop from genetically identical zygotes but that depend on differential nourishment. Queens and workers display distinct morphologies, anatomies and behavior, better known as caste differentiation. Despite some basic insights, the exact mechanism responsible for this phenomenon, especially at the molecular level, remains unclear although some progress has been achieved. In this study, we examined mRNA levels of the TOR （target of rapamycin） and Dnmt3 （DNA methyltransferase 3） genes, closely related to caste differentiation in honeybees. We also investigated mRNA expression of the S6K （similar to RPS6-p70-protein kinase） gene linked closely to organismal growth and development in queen and worker larvae （1-day and 3-day old）. Last, we investigated the methylation status of these three genes in corresponding castes. We found no difference in mRNA expression for the three genes between 1st instar queen and worker larvae; however, 3rd instar queen larvae had a higher level of TOR mRNA than worker larvae. Methylation levels of all three genes were lower in queen larvae than worker larvae but the differences were not statistically significant. These findings provide basic data for broadening our understanding of caste differentiation in female honeybees.
文摘Plant-pollinator in teractio ns have a fundame ntal in fluence on flower evolution. Flower color signals are frequently tuned to the visual capabilities of important pollinators such as either bees or birds, but far less is known about whether flower shape in fluences the choices of pollinators. We tested European honeybee Apis mellifera pref ere nces using novel achromatic (gray-scale) images of 12 insect-pollinated and 12 bird-pollinated native Australian flowers in Germany;thus, avoiding in flue nces of color, odor, or prior experie nee. In depende nt bees were tested with a number of parameterized images specifically desig ned to assess pref ere nces for size, shape, brightness, or the number of flower-like shapes prese nt in an image. We show that honeybees have a pref ere nee for visiti ng images of in sect-polli nated flowers and such a pref ere nee is most-likely mediated by holistic in formati on rather than by in dividual image parameters. Our results in dicate an giosperms have evolved flower shapes which in fluence the choice behavior of importa nt pollinators, and thus suggest spatial achromatic flower properties are an important part of visual signaling for plantpollinator in teractions.
基金supported by the National Science Foundation of China(91132307)the K.C.Wong Education Foundation,Hong Kong
文摘In learning and memory studies on honeybees （Apis mellifera）, cold-induced narcosis has been widely used to temporarily immobilize honeybees. In this study, we investigated the effects of cold narcosis on the associative memories in honeybees by using the proboscis extension response （PER） paradigm. Severe impairments in memory acquisition was found when cold narcosis was performed 30 rain, instead of 1 h before training. Locomotor activities were reduced when honeybees were tested 15 min, instead of 30 rain after cold narcosis. These results indicate that cold narcosis impairs locomotor activities, as well as memory acquisition in a time-dependent manner, but by comparison no such effects on memory retrieval have yet been observed.[0]
文摘The aim of our study was to explore whether honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) could be used as a reliable alternative to the standard mechanical devices for monitoring of air quality, in particular with respect to the concentration of the heavy metals cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and vanadium (V). We therefore tested whether the concentrations of these metals in adult honeybees and in ambient air were positively correlated, and whether differences in concentration between locations were similar for bees and air. On the basis of our measurements, conducted over a two-month period at three distinct locations in the Netherlands with each three replicate honeybee colonies placed next to mechanical monitoring devices, we concluded that a significant positive relationship between the concentrations in bees and in air could only be established for V. Also, only in the case of V, the differences between the three locations in mean concentration were similar for bees and air. Both outcomes were probably due to the relatively large range over which the concentrations of V varied, both in bees and in air, as compared to Cd and Pb. However, for V, as well as for Cd and Pb, the concentrations in ambient air were about two orders of magnitude below the established air quality standards. We therefore conclude that in the Netherlands, both variation and levels of the atmospheric concentrations of these metals are too low to establish a relationship between the concentration in bees and in air that is useful to present honeybees as an alternative to mechanical devices in monitoring of air pollution. However, in countries with larger variation and higher levels of the atmospheric concentrations of these metals, further exploration of the potential of honeybees in biomonitoring of air pollution may be worthwhile.
文摘Honeybees (Apis mellifera) are important pollinators of flowering plants and agricultural crops contributing annually to billions of dollars in revenues to crop production. Honeybees have an average lifespan between 8 weeks to 5 years. Dead honeybees are abundantly available in beehives and can be utilized as an alternative source to synthesize nanoparticles. In recent years, biologically synthesized nanoparticles have been preferred over their chemical counterparts. However, honeybee-based-green synthesis of nanoparticles has not been explored yet. Herein, we report the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles from honeybees and its antibacterial activity. The synthesis of silver nanoparticles was monitored visually through a gradual change in color. Furthermore, the biosynthesized nanoparticles were confirmed and characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy. Scanning Electron Microscope was utilized to analyze the average size and morphologies of the biosynthesized nanoparticles. Subsequently, the antibacterial potential of the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles was tested against selected Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. It was found that a distinct color change from yellow to brown in the reaction solution suggested the formation of silver nanoparticles. The biosynthesized nanoparticles exhibited absorption maxima at 430 nm. The SEM analysis confirmed the spherical and cuboidal shape of the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles with a size range between 10 - 40 nm. Furthermore, the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles exhibited strong antimicrobial potential against tested Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains by aggregating on the cell surface. This study showcases the biomedical and agricultural applications of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles from honeybee wings. .
文摘Efficient honey production requires knowledge about the behavior of the workers and the parameters that influence the strength of the colony. In this study, the objective was to analyze the interaction between the foraging behavior of worker honeybees and pollen storage levels in Africanized honeybees colonies. Colonies with low pollen storage increased pollen intake rates, but this value was 15% lower than colonies with high pollen storage, demonstrating a direct relationship between the pollen storage levels and foraging activity. The difference in pollen intake rates varied according to the number of foraging honeybees and pollen load collected by each individual. Under both high and low pollen storage, colonies returned pollen storage to initial level within 16 days, suggesting that honeybees regulate pollen storage levels around a homeostatic set point. Relationship between pollen storage levels and colony brood production was also found, indicating how alterations in the behavior of each individual can affect the strength of the colony.
文摘Since it first appeared in 2022,the phenomenon referred to as Colony Collapse Disorder(CCD)has affected several regions of Morocco to varying degrees.In order to assess the possible impact of pesticides on the appearance of this syndrome,we conducted a study aimed at evaluating the impact of pesticide use on the emergence of this syndrome through a year-long survey involving 160 beekeepers in the Beni Mellal–Khenifra Region(BKR)who also experienced an unprecedented desertion of hives during the same period.The majority of surveyed beekeepers practice mixed(45%)or migratory beekeeping(42%)and provide supplementary feeding(83.75%)to support their bees.Nearly 37.5%of the hives are located near crops treated with pesticides,exposing the bees to these chemicals.The results showed that the majority of beekeepers reported a cessation of queen laying(74.38%),high mortality rates among worker bees(81.25%),drones(65.63%),and queens(61.88%).Abnormal behaviors such as immobility with trembling(42.50%),reduced flights(47.50%),and disoriented navigation(28.75%)were also observed.Correlation analyses indicate that proximity to treated crops significantly increases the risk of queen laying cessation(Odds Ratio 6.0)and a reduction in waggle dances(Odds Ratio 2.41).Extended foraging flights show a borderline statistical significance(Odds Ratio 2.33),suggesting a disruption of natural food sources.These results highlight the potential impact of pesticides on colony health and bee behavior,pointing out the need to adapt beekeeping practices and implement protective measures against pesticides.
文摘Beeswax is the substance that forms the structure of a honeycomb; the bees secrete wax to build the honeycombs where to store honey.Thanks to its rich hydrophobic protective properties,the beeswax is in fact present within cosmetics and body products.Also,beeswax is used in the food industry:as a film to wrap cheese for maturing or as a food additive(E901) to give shine to the products.Exactly as the honey which it contains,beeswax is also characterized by several therapeutic properties of great interest to us; it is thought to be particularly effective in healing bruises,inflammation and burns.Recently,the interest of researchers has moved even on antimicrobial properties of beeswax although there are still few studies in the literature focused only on the action of beeswax.The few studies showed an anitimicrobic effectiveness of beeswax against overall Staphylococcus aureus,Salmonella enterica,Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger; these inhibitory effects are enhanced synergistically with other natural products such as honey or olive oil.This minireview aims to be a collection of major scientific works that have considered the antimicrobial activity of beeswax alone or in combination with other natural products in recent years.
基金funded by the National Basic Research Program of China (2009CB421303)
文摘Pollen limitation of plant reproduction occurs across Angiosperms, particularly those in patched habitats We investigated the, relationship between pollen limitation and patch variables （patch size, visitation frequency） in the desert plant Hedysarum scoparium （Fabaceae）, which is an important xerophyte in the arid and semi-arid regions of Northwest China and can grow well as a pioneer plant in shifting sand dunes. We observed insect visitation to H. scoparium over two flowering seasons and estimated pollen limitation using fruit set and seed production. Our results indicate that fruit set and seed production increased significantly with pollen supplementation compared with open pollination. Hedysarum scoparium was pollinated by over 8 species of bees, with 88.4% of visits made by introduced honeybees （Apis mellifera）. Bee visitation varied significantly among the patches of habitats, but not associated with patch size of habitat. In general, pollen limitation occurred more strongly during fruit set than during seed production. The patches that received higher rates of pollinator visits were less pollen limited for fruit set. Pollen limitation for seed production, however, was not associated with pollinator visitation frequency. We conclude that pollen limitation in H. scoparium was caused by more than one reason, not just pollinator visits.
文摘The protein composition of the egg development in the high royal jelly producing bees （Apis mellifera L.） was investigated. This pioneer study was to separate and quantify the proteins in the egg of the high royal jelly producing worker bees （Apis mellifera L.） by using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis along with their three-day development. The results showed that 160, 195, and 176 proteins, with a wide range of molecular weight （17-80 KDa） and relatively narrow scope of pI （4. 00-8.40） could be detected on day 1, day 2, and day 3, respectively, during the developmental process of the egg. Meanwhile 44 protein spots were constantly detected along with the egg development. Among them 36% were in the uptrend along with the egg development, 14% were in the downtrend, and 39% were of the largest expressed volume on day 2. In addition, the specific proteins were expressed on day 1, day 2, and day 3 （89, 77, and 80, respectively）. Besides the coexistent and specific proteins, 24 proteins were expressed on day 1 and day 2, but silenced on day 3, 49 proteins were expressed on day 2 and day 3, but silenced on day 1, only 3 proteins were expressed on day 1 and day 3, but silenced on day 2. The result indicates that egg development is a sequential and complex gene controlled process, where the eggs of day 2 express the most active proteins. The coexistent proteins suggest that it is conservative and indispensable for this event. These specific proteins suggest that the different developmental stage needs specific proteins to regulate it.
文摘Mite （Varroa destructor） is one of the most serious parasite threats to the honey bee （Apis mellifera） reared in China. The beekeepers mainly use the drug to control and kill the mite in the past years, but the honey products may be contaminated and the mite is becoming drug-resistant. The main idea of this paper is to research the possibility of mite-resistant honeybee rearing by nutritional crossbreed. The larvae （Apis mellifera ligustica） are bred with the royal jelly of Apis carana carana, and then the morphological index of the worker generation, genotypic frequency and gene frequency of the MDH Ⅱ, genetic resemblance, and mite resistance are measured. The results show that： compared to the parent workers, the proboscis length, anterior wing area, the total length of the third and fourth dorsal plate of the abdomen, the length of the fourth dorsal plate of the tuberculum, the area of the sixth abdominal segment, and the area of wax mirrors are significantly different, but the differences in the brachium index, dactylus index, and wing claw are not significant. Moreover, there are some mutations in the genotypic frequency and gene frequency of the MDH Ⅱ. The mite resistance of the nutritional crossbreed worker is significantly higher. The morphological, physical, and biochemical characters, genetic resemblance, and the mite-resistant ability of the worker generation can be changed by nutritional crossbreeding. Nutritional crossbreeding can be a new way to breed the honeybee.
文摘The stinging response thresholds of individual European and Africanized worker honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) were analyzed. Workers of each genotype performing defense (guard and soldier bees) and non-defense (nest and forager bees) associated tasks were collected and exposed to an electric stimulus of 0.5 mA, and the time they took to sting a leather substrate was recorded. Africanized bees had significant lower thresholds of response than European bees. Guards and soldiers were faster to sting than nest and forager bees for the Africanized genotype, whereas for the European genotype, guards stung significantly faster than bees of the other three task groups. This is the first study that shows that individual bees specialized in two defensive tasks also have a lower response threshold for stinging. Our results fit a model of division of labor based on differences in response thresholds to stimuli among workers of different genotypes and task groups.
