Pathogen Spillover from Commercial Bumble Bees Threatens Wild Pollinators
Author Information
Author(s): Michael C. Otterstatter, James D. Thomson
Primary Institution: University of Toronto
Hypothesis
Does pathogen spillover from commercially reared bumble bees threaten wild pollinators?
Conclusion
Pathogen spillover from commercial bumble bees is likely contributing to the decline of wild bumble bee populations in North America.
Supporting Evidence
- Pathogen spillover from commercial bumble bees has been observed near greenhouses.
- Up to 75% of wild bumble bees were infected with the pathogen C. bombi near greenhouses.
- Prevalence of C. bombi infections declined with increasing distance from greenhouses.
Takeaway
Commercial bumble bees can spread diseases to wild bumble bees, which may make them sick and reduce their numbers.
Methodology
The study used a spatially explicit model and field monitoring to assess pathogen spillover from commercial to wild bumble bees.
Potential Biases
Potential underestimation of disease prevalence due to sampling methods.
Limitations
The study did not observe a large wave of secondary infections among wild bees as predicted by the model.
Participant Demographics
Wild bumble bee populations near greenhouses in southern Ontario.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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