Damage by the varroa destructor mite has been extensive in Hawaii‘s honeybee population but it also presented an opportunity.
The parasites that attack bees were first seen on O‘ahu five years ago.
Their arrival allowed scientists to study how they spread and cripple bee colonies. It also gave researchers insight into what causes "colony collapse disorder".. which is affecting bee populations worldwide.
The scientists found a link between the appearance of the varroa mite in colonies and an increase of bees with deformed wing virus often to 100 percent of a colony’s population.
Even if colonies are cleared of mites, the infection persists.
Scientists say the mites change the virus so it becomes more deadly.
The findings are published in the Journal Science by researchers from the University of Sheffield in England.
See the original article at: KHON2 Developing Stories
