Search and Genetic Characterization of Bacteria of the Genus Spiroplasma Saglio Et Al. 1973 (Class Mollicutes) in the Populations of Apis Mellifera L. (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) of Eastern Europe and Western Siberia

The present study reports the analysis of honey bee Apis mellifera L. populations for the presence of Spiroplasma Saglio et al. 1973 bacteria, known to cause May disease. Detection of Spiroplasma was performed using polymerase chain reaction with specific primers targeting the 16S rDNA region. A total of 212 bees from 18 regions across Eastern Europe and Western Siberia were examined. Spiroplasma infection was identified in three cases from two regions: the Udmurt Republic and Republic of Tatarstan. Phylogenetic analysis of nucleotide sequences revealed that two isolates belong to the Citri-Chrysopicola-Mirum clade, with one genetically identical to S. melliferum, a known bee pathogen. The third isolate was classified within the Ixodetis clade, commonly found among arthropods. Interviews with beekeepers from various regions reported no visible symptoms of May disease in their colonies. These findings suggest Spiroplasma bacteria may be present in honeybee populations without manifesting visible symptoms. Further in-depth studies are recommended in regions where these bacteria have been detected.