By Jamie Martin
USDA scientists recently shared information regarding honey bee colony collapses where they identified high levels of deformed wing virus A and B and acute bee paralysis in bees collected from across the country. These viruses are linked to widespread honey bee deaths.
A major concern is the role of Varroa destructor mites in spreading these viruses. USDA-ARS screened mites from collapsed colonies and discovered resistance to amitraz, a key miticide used by beekeepers. This resistance was found in nearly all samples, raising alarms over current mite control practices.
“Our nation’s food supply thrives, and is sustained, by the work of our pollinators,” explains Acting ARS Administrator Joon Park. “USDA scientists continue to research major stressors and new parasite treatment strategies, which will help reduce the agricultural challenge presented by the Varroa mites in honey bee colonies.”
By January 2025, commercial beekeepers had reported losing over 60% of their colonies—totaling 1.7 million colonies and a $600 million economic hit. Samples collected in February before almond pollination in California and other western states confirmed virus presence in both pooled colonies and individual sick bees.
“While viruses are a likely end-stage cause of colony death, these results do not rule out the importance of other long known challenges to honey bees,” said ARS Research Leader Dr. Judy Chen.
Honey bees pollinate crops worth over $20 billion annually in the U.S. and $387 billion worldwide. Their health is critical to agriculture and food security.
USDA-ARS will continue monitoring bees and colonies for stress factors, aiming to find better mite treatments and protect U.S. pollination services.
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Categories: National