Honey bees reared in brood combs containing high levels of pesticide residues exhibit increased susceptibility to Nosema infection

We examined the effects of pesticide residue exposure during development on adult honey bees. Nosema ceranae infections were higher in adult bees reared in high pesticide brood combs. N. ceranae infection occurred at a younger age in adult bees reared in high pesticide brood combs. Pesticide residues in managed bee operations may contribute to Nosema infection and colony loss.

We examined the effects of pesticide residue exposure during development on adult honey bees. Nosema ceranae infections were higher in adult bees reared in high pesticide brood combs. N. ceranae infection occurred at a younger age in adult bees reared in high pesticide brood combs. Pesticide residues in managed bee operations may contribute to Nosema infection and colony loss.