A new case of a disease that threatens Hawaii’s honeybees recently was discovered in Kula, Maui.
A new case of a disease that threatens Hawaii’s honeybees recently was discovered in Kula, Maui.
In light of the discovery of American foulbrood, the state Department of Agriculture is warning beekeepers to be extra vigilant in hive inspection.
Despite its name, American foulbrood is found around the world. It is a bacterium that kills bee larvae and infects embryos and eggs.
In the 1930s, the disease killed off most of the state’s honeybees. Spores of AFB can live for more than 50 years, according to a DOA press release.
“Since the spores will always be present, the best strategy for disease control is early detection,” said John McHugh of the DOA Plant Industry Division.
In February and October of 2016, hives on Oahu and Hawaii Island also were found to have AFB.
Infected hives must be destroyed because the disease is resistant to antibiotics, heat and disinfectants.
For more information, contact the Apiary Program in Hilo at 339-1977.