Darwin's solution: Honeybees survive mite vectors and viruses through natural selection
Trends in Parasitology, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Derleme
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.pt.2026.05.015
- Dergi Adı: Trends in Parasitology
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Zoological Record
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Apis, host shifts, host–vector–virus coevolution, natural hosts, Tropilaelaps, Varroa
- Hacettepe Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Complex host–vector–virus interfaces can impose serious health challenges. Western honeybees have experienced high colony losses globally, mainly driven by the host-shifted, virus-vectoring ectoparasitic mites Varroa destructor and Tropilaelaps mercedesae. Host populations can survive mite infestations through natural selection, offering a long-term strategy for colony health. However, host–vector–virus coevolution requires local adaptations of this triad, which is poorly understood. We propose harnessing natural selection through a global approach focused on standardized monitoring of colony survival, mite infestation levels, and control of reproductives. Studying native and adapted mite hosts, host shifts, and comparing susceptible to surviving hosts will enhance understanding of this host–vector–virus system. This strategy promotes colony health in both managed and wild host populations and provides insights into other host–vector–virus interfaces.