Eleven years after the first nationwide monitoring of honey bee health, Uruguayan researchers conducted a new survey across the country and published the results in the Journal of Apicultural Research.

In the latest monitoring, researchers observed a shift from synthetic to organic acaricides for Varroa control, as well as changes in the prevalence of some bee pathogens. Lotmaria passim showed the highest prevalence (60%), followed by DWV (31%), SBV (27%), CBPV (25%), BQCV (22%), and ABPV (6%). Nosema ceranae infection showed lower levels compared with those reported in European countries.

Regarding bee biodiversity, as in 2011, most colonies were Africanized (62.5%).

According to the researchers, periodic monitoring programs are important for informing stronger control measures and protecting honey bee health.

Go to the scientific paper here.