Climate change threatens the survival of UK honey bees

A recent study funded by the Insect Pollinators Initiative has claimed that the gut parasite Nosema ceranae will increase across northern Europe as temperatures rise. The parasite targets honey bees in particular and could lead to increased honey bee colony losses in Britain as it flourishes in our warmer temperatures.

New evidence has revealed not only a link between the parasite’s population size and climate change but also that it is a better competitor than its close Asian relatives. This emerging parasite is more susceptible to cold than its original relative.

The study assessed the future threat posed by the gut parasite which originates in Asia but can now be found worldwide.

Source: Guardian online Nov 2014