Honeybee Viruses in Solitary Bees: Replication and Mortality

This study examines the impact of three common honeybee viruses—DWV-A, DWV-B, and BQCV—on two solitary bee species, Osmia bicornis and Anthophora plumipes. Using injection-based inoculation and real-time PCR, viral replication was assessed over time. No significant viral replication was detected in either solitary bee species, despite high mortality rates, suggesting possible host resistance or stress from handling. In contrast, replication occurred in Apis mellifera, highlighting species-specific responses. Findings indicate limited viral activity in wild bees under experimental conditions, raising questions about exposure routes and pathogen spillover. The study contributes to understanding virus-host dynamics in wild pollinators and informs broader research on pesticide-pathogen interactions within the Pan-European PoshBee initiative.