Spatiotemporal patterns of honeybee health within different regions of Spain (2012-2020)

Pérez-Cobo, Iratxe ; De Blas, Ignacio (Universidad de Zaragoza) ; Hernando, María D. ; Iglesias, Irene

Resumen: Globally recognized for their indispensable role in pollination, honeybees (Apis mellifera) not only enhance agricultural yields but also play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. In Spain, the main producer of honey in Europe, with over 36,475 beekeepers and more than three million colonies, the dynamic landscape of apiculture reflects a complex interaction of traditional practices and modern challenges. This study analyzes data from the Spanish National Surveillance Program of Honeybee Colonies Losses between 2012 and 2020, focusing on the spatial-temporal dynamics of several pathogens, pesticides, and management practices that could affect the directional distribution and rates of mortality and strength of apiaries using geographical and scan statistics tools. Spatial analysis indicated annual variations in directional trends in apiaries' strength and mortality. Apiary strength shows regional fluctuations, with significantly lower values in autumn in the southwestern regions between 2017 and 2020 and in spring 2018 in the northwestern. The study also noted a substantial influence of Varroa destructor, Nosema spp., and pesticide exposure on apiary health, with seasonal variations. Clusters of high Nosema spp. spores load and Varroa infestations, previously detected in central-western and northeastern Spain, respectively, could be related to the cluster of high winter mortality observed in 2020, which included these regions. Our analysis not only reveals critical points of honeybee health but also contributes to a deeper understanding of geographical and seasonal factors that can affect their survival. The insights aim to support the development of sustainable beekeeping practices and robust agricultural policies.

Idioma: Inglés

DOI: 10.51585/gjvr.2025.1.0115

Año: 2025

Publicado en: German journal of veterinary research 5, 1 (2025), 8-16
ISSN:

Tipo y forma: Article (Published version)

Área (Departamento): Área Sanidad Animal (Dpto. Patología Animal)