How to protect bumblebee colonies safe from killer moths? Keep honeybee hives away from them Researchers have shown for the first time that bumblebee colonies are more likely to become infested with bumblebee wax moths as they are closer to nearby honeybee hives, which can likewise host these potentially devastating parasites. As the distance to the apiaries decreased, bumblebee colonies were less productive, while their workers showed a weaker general immune response to pathogens and parasites. The authors advise honeybee keepers to keep apiaries away from habitats rich in bumblebees, which are important pollinators but declining worldwide.

10-Apr-2025
How to protect #bumblebee colonies safe from killer moths? Keep #honeybee hives away from them
Bumblebee colonies closer to honeybee hives are more likely to attract voracious #waxMoths

https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1078966

#science #insects #ecology

Hello 🦋ers!

Mostly post about moths, bugs, mushrooms and nature with a fair bit of crossover from our @gmrc.bsky.social account where we look at how the #Galleriamellonella model can help achieve the #3Rs aims + lots of other cool moth research associated with #waxmoths.