Novel <scp>eDNA</scp> approaches to monitor Western honey bee (<i>Apis mellifera</i> L.) microbial and arthropod communities

Pests and pathogens are a continuous threat to the health of Western honey bee Apis mellifera L. Monitoring colonies for arthropod pests, disease-causing bacteria fungi, early detection new invasions is essential maintain pollination services provided by bees. We investigated feasibility using eDNA metabarcoding detect pests in hives across their foraging environment. sampled 13 sources within outside from our test apiary determine where most informative could be obtained, with thrice. This resulted 61 samples, 20 negative controls, three positive controls. Furthermore, we compared two collection techniques—wiping surfaces moistened forensic swabs spray/wash technique that aggregated surface into container, before collecting on filter. used DNA universal primer sets target arthropod, bacterial, fungal communities. Our results showed yielded sufficient swab methods were similar when they applied same surface. detected bacterial symbionts, mycotoxin-producing fungi Brachymyrmex sp. rover ants. Common concern bees (i.e., [small hive beetle (Aethina tumida), Varroa destructor, Melissococcus plutonius]) detected. matched visual observations clinical signs these tested. some species was source specific, which has implications as monitoring tool. Collectively, data show can accurately arthropods microbes contact comprehensive molecular predictor tool colony surveys.