Bee-Killing Disease: A Case Study

Beekeepers are reporting alarming statistics regarding the deaths of multiple bee hives and scientists, researchers, and the public are concerned. Since 2006 beekeepers have seen an average decline of 33% of bees in colonies each year. Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is the official name of the bee-killing disease, and this problem will significantly affect the economy and agriculture of the U.S. “About one mouthful in three of our diet directly or indirectly benefits from honeybee population.”(US Department of Agriculture 2015) There are multiple factors contributing to CCD and many scientists everywhere are trying to find an answer to the problem of decreasing honey bee populations. There is no forgetting a simple solution; going back to the basics of organically managed beehives to cut out all factors of possible CCD. What could be causing CCD, what are some possible solutions, and why would alternative agriculture be the most plausible solution? CCD is believed to be quite convoluted and as a result, tie into many different factors. A particular study assessed 61 factors, and found that not one single stressor stood out as the primary cause …show more content…
The overwhelming demand of honey provokes beekeepers to keep their bees buzzing 12 months a year even when their resting months should be January and February. Since bees aren’t native to all corners of the country they go on the road for long periods of time, putting unnecessary stress on their bodies. According to USDA Research Magazine, the bee’s familiarization to it’s own hive to is fundamental. Continually being relocated is stressful on a honey bee. In addition, being close captivity between many beehives during transportation amplifies the transmission of disease and pathogens. Supplementary stress is put on the bees when they are forced explore foreign fields during