Chalkbrood disease (bee)
Description
Chalkbrood is a fungal disease of honey bee brood that infects the gut of the larvae. It is caused by a spore-forming fungus Ascosphaera apis that is consumed along with larval food. Although it can affect workers, drones, or queens it most often occurs in workers and drones. It does not infect humans and has no effect on the quality of the honey or other apiary products.
Diagnosis and tests available
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is strongly supported by hive inspection and is confirmed by physical examination of the affected comb. Culture is only performed when physical examination is inconclusive. PCR confirmation is available if requested.
Tests available
Test | Sample(s) required | Days of the week test is conducted | Turnaround time1 |
|---|---|---|---|
Ascosphaera apis PCR3 | PCR performed from culture | Monday – Friday | 3 days |
Fungal culture | Frass or fresh honeycomb | Monday – Saturday2 | 7 days |
| Hive examination | Frass, fresh honeycomb, larvae or bees | Monday – Friday | 2 days |
1 Turnaround times are provided as a guide only. For specific information about your submission please contact Customer Service.
2 Prior approval of delivery and testing on Saturday is required. Please contact Customer Service on 1800 675 623 to seek approval.
3 This test is not NATA accredited.
Specimen requirements
Frass
- Fresh frass collected in a sterile container
Fresh comb
- Fresh honeycomb collected in a sterile container
Larvae or bees
- Submit in a sterile yellow container
