ABSTRACT
Nosema ceranae, a honey bee pathogen now known worldwide, may be detected quickly by either light microscopy or by antibody tests. While these tests are less sensitive than polymerase chain reaction, they may be more practical for routine diagnosis. Phase contrast light microscopy allows one to distinguish between primary, environmental, and germinated spores. Fluorescent stains may demonstrate the maturity of spores and the integrity of the spore membranes. Polar filaments from the spores are also seen by proper microscopic techniques. Antibodies are also helpful in identifying Nosema spores and can be specific to the Nosema ceranae species. The antibodies attach to protein in the wall of the spore. This test is able to detect an infestation as few as 1,000 spores, a tiny fraction of the spores present in a highly infected bee. We hope to see this test commercialized so that it is available to beekeepers.
