Current opinion in insect science 

About: Current opinion in insect science is an academic journal published by Elsevier BV. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Biology & Medicine. It has an ISSN identifier of 2214-5745. Over the lifetime, 983 publications have been published receiving 26081 citations.

Bee nutrition and floral resource restoration

Abstract: Bee-population declines are linked to nutritional shortages caused by land-use intensification, which reduces diversity and abundance of host-plant species. Bees require nectar and pollen floral resources that provide necessary carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and micronutrients for survival, reproduction, and resilience to stress. However, nectar and pollen nutritional quality varies widely among host-plant species, which in turn influences how bees forage to obtain their nutritionally appropriate diets. Unfortunately, we know little about the nutritional requirements of different bee species. Research must be conducted on bee species nutritional needs and host-plant species resource quality to develop diverse and nutritionally balanced plant communities. Restoring appropriate suites of plant species to landscapes can support diverse bee species populations and their associated pollination ecosystem services.

The role of the gut microbiome in health and disease of adult honey bee workers.

Abstract: The role of the gut microbiome in animal health has become increasingly evident. Unlike most other insects, honey bees possess a highly conserved and specialized core gut microbiome, which consists of nine bacterial species and is acquired mostly through social transmission. Five of these species are ubiquitous in honey bees and are also present in bumble bees. Recent studies have shown that the bee gut microbiome plays a role in metabolism, immune function, growth and development, and protection against pathogens. Disruption of the gut microbiome has also been shown to have detrimental effects on bee health. Overall, evidence suggests that the gut microbiome plays an important role in bee health and disease.

Xenobiotic detoxification pathways in honey bees

Abstract: Relative to most other insect genomes, the western honey bee Apis mellifera has a deficit of detoxification genes spanning Phase I (functionalization), II (conjugation) and III (excretion) gene families. Although honeybees do not display across-the-board greater sensitivity to pesticides, this deficit may render them vulnerable to synergistic interactions among xenobiotics. Diet quality, in terms of protein and phytochemical content, has a pronounced influence on tolerance of toxic compounds. Detoxification gene inventory reduction may reflect an evolutionary history of consuming relatively chemically benign nectar and pollen, as other apoid pollinators display comparable levels of cytochrome P450 gene reduction. Enzymatic detoxification in the eusocial A. mellifera may be complemented by behaviors comprising a 'social detoxification system,' including forager discrimination, dilution by pollen mixing, and colony food processing via microbial fermentation, that reduces the number or quantity of ingested chemicals requiring detoxification.

Honey bee colony losses and associated viruses

Abstract: Recent large-scale colony losses among managed Western honey bees (Apis mellifera) have alarmed researchers and apiculturists alike. Here, the existing correlative evidence provided by monitoring studies is reviewed which (i) identified members of the deformed wing virus and acute bee paralysis virus clades as lethal pathogens for entire colonies, and (ii) identified novel viruses whose impact on honey bee health remains elusive. Also discussed in this review is related evidence obtained via controlled experimental infection assays and RNAi approaches underscoring the damage inflicted by some of these viruses on individuals and colonies. The relevance of the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor acting as mechanical and biological virus vector for the enhanced virulence of certain viruses or mite selected virus strains is carefully considered.

Insect cuticle: a critical determinant of insecticide resistance.

Abstract: Intense use of insecticides has resulted in the selection of extreme levels of resistance in insect populations. Therefore understanding the molecular basis of insecticide resistance mechanisms becomes critical. Penetration resistance refers to modifications in the cuticle that will eventually slow down the penetration of insecticide molecules within insects' body. So far, two mechanisms of penetration resistance have been described, the cuticle thickening and the altering of cuticle composition. Cuticular modifications are attributed to the over-expression of diversified genes or proteins, which belong to structural components (cuticular proteins mainly), enzymes that catalyze enzymatic reactions (CYP4G16 and laccase 2) or ABC transporters that promote cuticular translocation. In the present review we summarize recent studies and discuss future perspectives.