Testing the ability of chitosan nanoparticles to improve development and performance of honey bee colonies during early spring

Abstract

AbstractChitosan has shown promising results in improving bee health. The experiments of this study investigated the effects of using chitosan nanoparticles (CHNPs) on honey bee colonies. CHNPs were added into the bee feed at three concentrations: 10, 30, and 60 ppm (i.e. CHNPs 10, CHNPs 30, and CHNPs 60). The effects of these treatments on activities and performance of bee colonies were compared during early spring in addition to a control group without CHNPs. The survival experiment supported the safety of these concentrations of CHNPs to bees. The data from the apiary showed the superior results of CHNPs 30 and CHNPs 60 on comb building, hygienic behavior, stored food, and colony strength significantly than CHNPs 10 and the control group. No significant variations generally were found between CHNPs 30 and CHNPs 60 as well as between CHNPs 10 and the control group in the measured parameters. The mean numbers of dead bees in front of beehive entrances supported the absence of negative effects of CHNPs on bee colonies. The study emphasized the role of chitosan nanoparticles in enhancing performance and activities of bee colonies especially with CHNPs 30 and CHNPs 60 after winter season.