Progress in research on resistance to chalkbrood in honeybees

Author of the article:YAN LiMin 1**LIU YuanZhen2LIU Fang3SU SongKun1,2

Author's Workplace：1. College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou310058, China; 2. College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou350002, China; 3. College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei230036, China)

Key Words：honey bee, chalkbrood, tolerance character, Ascosphaera apis

Abstract：      Chalkbrood is a fungal disease of honeybees caused by Ascosphaera apis which is globally on the increase. Research into resistance mechanisms and the breeding of resistant honey bees has become particularly urgent. We here review both chalkbrood research and the major advances in research on resistance mechanisms in honey bees. In particular, we focus on the significance of studying the molecular basis of chalkbrood resistance in honey bees at the molecular level. This could provide a genetic basis for cultivating improved strains of resistant honey bees by combining markerassisted selection and modern bioengineering technologies with conventional breeding methods.