Science updates: Microbiota Analysis of Ejaculated Honey Bee Drone Semen

 

Science updates:

Microbiota Analysis 

of Ejaculated Honey Bee Drone Semen

 

This study investigates the microbiota of ejaculated honey bee drone semen and the impact of semen collection methods on bacterial loads. The research aims to characterize the bacterial composition of semen and assess variations based on collection methods, colonies, and apiaries. The study employs culture-dependent and independent methods, including next-generation sequencing, to analyze semen samples from different locations. The findings reveal significant differences in bacterial loads and microbiota composition between semen collection methods and across different apiaries and colonies.

 


The study was conducted over two beekeeping seasons in northeastern Spain. Semen samples were collected from drones using two methods: ejaculation and seminal vesicle extraction. Bacterial loads were assessed using culture-dependent methods, and the microbiome was characterized through next-generation sequencing. The study analyzed samples from multiple colonies across different apiaries to evaluate the impact of location on semen microbiota. The collection method significantly influenced the bacterial loads in semen, with the ejaculation method yielding lower contamination than seminal vesicle extraction. The study identified Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Actinobacteriota as the most abundant phyla in the semen microbiota. Notably, the apiary location had a significant effect on the community structure and abundance of the seminal microbiota. The study also found that certain bacterial genera, such as Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus, Prevotella, and Alloprevotella, were prevalent in the semen samples.

 

 


The study provides valuable insights into the microbiota of honey bee drone semen and the effects of semen collection methods on bacterial loads. The findings highlight the importance of maintaining hygiene during semen collection to minimize bacterial contamination. Additionally, the study suggests that the semen microbiota may be influenced by the geographical location of the apiary. This research contributes to the understanding of honey bee reproductive health and could inform the development of strategies to improve Artificial Insemination outcomes in honey bees.

 

Reference:

Yániz, J., Toquet, M., Santolaria, P., Silvestre, M. A., Toledo-Perona, R., & Gómez-Martín, Á. (2024). Microbiota Analysis of Ejaculated Honey Bee Drone Semen and the Effect of Semen Collection Method on Bacterial Loads. Insects, 15(6), 377.

 

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