K-shaped wing position
Photo of a bee with wings held in a cross (or K-shaped) position.
What should be thought about this bee?
- The insect positions its wings to release a trail pheromone that allows nearby foragers to relocate the nectar source.
- In case of high temperature, the bee stretches its wings to facilitate heat dissipation.
- Bee infected with acarine disease
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Correct answer: 3
Acarine disease of bees is an infestation of adult bees by mites of the species Acarapis woodi. Affected colonies are weakened, especially in spring, and may collapse.
Only adult bees are susceptible to the parasite Acarapis woodi.
Infected insects become weakened and unable to fly. Especially in spring, bees can be observed crawling and hopping in front of the hive entrance. It is mainly at this time of year that affected colonies weaken and may die. The parasite disrupts the bees’ respiration and causes thoracic lesions with paralysis of the wing muscles and a cross- or “K”-shaped wing position.
Transmission occurs directly from one bee to another. The mite Acarapis woodi can spread from one colony to another through robbing, as well as through the flight of drones and workers. Spread may also occur through the purchase of infested colonies or queens.
► Read the article: Observations at the hive entrance