Bees are under attack by agra bis. The condition advertised by the media as CCD, colonie collapse disorder is a stress condition. It was reported back in the 30.
What creates stress in the hive? In the past primarily lack of bio diversity. Then created by climate conditions. Now some is climate related. Most is chemical such as glyphcides (roundup) poor farming practices and chemicals brought home to the hive. Most hives in North America can have 20 or more chemicals identified. Stored in the wax and food stores brought home to feed the young.
Yes varoa mites are a stress (also introduced by agra bis). This stress bees are adapting to but are still used as the convenient scape goat to sell more stressful chemicals to add to the hive.
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