Investigation of the Relationship Between Nosema spp. and Black Queen Cell Virus in Honey Bees in Türkiye

İngilizce (OpenAlex)

Significant losses in honey bee colonies have been reported worldwide, largely due to pathogens affecting bee health. Among these, Nosema species and Black queen cell virus (BQCV) are particularly prominent. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Nosema spp. and BQCV in honey bees, investigate the genetic diversity of BQCV, and assess Nosema spp. and BQCV potential association. Adult honey bee samples were collected from 62 randomly selected apiaries in Hatay Province, Türkiye. Nosema spp. were detected and identified at the species level using a multiplex PCR assay, while BQCV was detected by a one-step real-time RT-PCR assay. BQCV was found in 21.0% of the apiaries, and Nosema ceranae infection in 48.4%. Co-infection occurred in 8.1% of the apiaries. No significant association was observed between N. ceranae and BQCV positivity. However, shared use of beekeeping equipment among hives was significantly associated with both pathogens. Phylogenetic analysis of the BQCV helicase gene revealed that isolates identified in this study clustered with Asian-origin sequences, suggesting the circulation of different BQCV genotypes in Türkiye. These findings provide insight into pathogen prevalence and co-occurrence in honey bee colonies. Further studies are warranted to characterize BQCV genotypes and to explore the relationship between Nosema spp. and BQCV in Türkiye in greater detail.