The concern that commercial bees (such as honeybees) could be making wild bees sick primarily stems from studies investigating the viruses present in honeybee populations and their potential transmission to wild bee species.
Evidence supporting the analysis that commercial bees might negatively impact wild bees can include:
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The fact that all the honeybee apiaries tested were infected by both viruses: This suggests that a widespread viral presence in commercial honeybee populations could lead to increased transmission opportunities to wild bees.
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The percentage of flowers that tested positive for viruses and their proximity to apiaries: This provides evidence of how the presence of commercial bee populations might influence the environment, including the flora, potentially affecting wild bee health.
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The percentage of bumblebees affected based on their proximity to apiaries: This directly links the health of wild bee populations to their proximity to commercial bee populations, indicating that the closer wild bees are to commercial colonies, the higher the likelihood of them carrying viruses, which implies transmission.
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The difference between the two types of viruses: Understanding how these viruses differ can shed light on the specific risks posed to wild bee populations. If one virus is more virulent or easily transmissible, it may present a greater threat.
Overall, studies in this area aim to understand the complex interactions between commercial and wild bees, with evidence leading to concerns about the health of wild bee populations being influenced by the presence and health of commercial bees.
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