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Ascosphaera apis as a target for the antifungal activity of symbiotic Bifidobacteria in honey bees

Summary

Researchers found that certain beneficial bacteria (Bifidobacterium asteroides) living in honey bee guts can fight the fungus that causes chalkbrood disease, a serious condition affecting bee colonies. These bacteria produce natural compounds, especially propanoic acid and ethanol, that kill the fungus and prevent it from growing. This discovery offers a safe, natural alternative to chemical treatments for protecting honeybees from fungal infections while maintaining colony health.

Background

Bifidobacterium is a key component of the honey bee gut microbiota essential for maintaining host health and colony well-being. Chalkbrood disease, caused by the fungus Ascosphaera apis, remains a major threat to honey bee health due to its detrimental effects on colony strength and honey yield. There is growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives for disease control.

Objective

To characterize enzymatic activity and carbohydrate assimilation of Bifidobacterium strains isolated from honey bee intestinal tracts and assess their antifungal potential against A. apis strains, with particular focus on volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This study aims to identify potential probiotic candidates for biocontrol of chalkbrood disease.

Results

Nine isolates were identified as B. asteroides, B. apousia, B. mizhiense, and B. choladohabitans. B. asteroides 3CP-2B demonstrated strong antifungal activity with complete inhibition of A. apis growth using broth culture and cell-free supernatant. Major VOCs identified included propanoic acid (45.8%), ethanol (25.0%), acetic acid (17.3%), ethyl propionate (3.1%), and 1-propanol (2.3%), with antifungal effects mediated by both volatile and non-volatile bioactive metabolites.

Conclusion

B. asteroides 3CP-2B exhibits strong antifungal activity against A. apis, suggesting its potential application as a probiotic supplement or biocontrol agent against chalkbrood disease. The identified VOCs and enzymatic capabilities supporting detoxification and nutrient metabolism provide a foundation for future biocontrol strategies. Further studies are needed to evaluate safety and develop effective application methods without disrupting colony balance.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Insect Science,
  • Study Type:Experimental Laboratory Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41103917, doi: 10.3389/finsc.2025.1669013
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