The Question is from neet-zoology strategies-for-enhancement-in-food-production animal-husbandry, and it was created by the author T SAILAJA

Question

A beekeeper notices a significant decline in his honeybee population, with bees exhibiting abnormal wing development and weakened immune systems.  Upon further investigation, he finds deformed mites within the colony. Which of the following is the MOST likely culprit?

T SAILAJA · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Bee diseases and parasites
 **Related Topics**: Acaricide resistance, honeybee health, Varroa mite lifecycle
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of honeybee biology and common bee pests.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  Significant decline in honeybee population.
  Abnormal wing development in bees.
  Weakened immune systems in bees.
  Presence of deformed mites in the colony.
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Identify the key symptoms: Deformed wings and weakened immune systems are classic signs of Varroa mite infestation.
  Reasoning: Varroa mites feed on bee hemolymph (blood), weakening the bees and leading to deformities, especially in developing bees.  The weakened immune system is a consequence of the mite's feeding and virus transmission.
  Formula/Rule:  No specific formula is applicable here; this is a diagnostic problem based on knowledge of bee diseases.
 2. Consider the mite species: The question states deformed mites are found.  While other mites can affect bees, *Varroa destructor* is known to cause deformed wing virus (DWV) transmission, leading to the observed symptoms.
  Working:  Eliminate other options based on their typical symptoms.
  Key Point:  The presence of deformed mites strongly suggests *Varroa destructor* because of its association with DWV.
 3. Choose the most likely culprit: Based on the symptoms and the presence of deformed mites, *Varroa destructor* is the most likely cause.
  Result: *Varroa destructor*
  Verification:  The symptoms align perfectly with the known effects of *Varroa destructor* infestation.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: *Tropilaelaps clareae* is a mite that also infects honeybees, but it's less common in many areas and doesn't typically cause the same level of wing deformation as *Varroa destructor*.
B :x: *Nosema apis* is a microsporidian parasite that causes nosemosis, affecting the digestive system of bees. It doesn't directly cause wing deformities.
C ✓: *Varroa destructor* is a parasitic mite that feeds on honeybees, transmitting viruses and causing deformed wings and weakened immune systems, perfectly matching the description.
D :x: *Acarapis woodi* is a tracheal mite that infects the respiratory system of bees.  It doesn't cause wing deformities directly.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing symptoms of different bee pests:  Understanding the specific symptoms of each pest is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
  2.Overlooking the importance of deformed wings:  Deformed wings are a strong indicator of *Varroa destructor* infestation.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Memorize the key symptoms associated with common bee pests.
  2.Use a diagnostic key if you are unsure.

T SAILAJA · Answer

Tropilaelaps clareae

T SAILAJA · Answer

Nosema apis

T SAILAJA · Answer

The correct Option is "Varroa destructor"

T SAILAJA · Answer

Acarapis woodi

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