What are dead larvae before capping an indication of?

Dead larvae before capping often indicate European Foulbrood, which is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Melissococcus plutonius. In cases of European Foulbrood, the larvae typically die before they are capped, which is a key characteristic of this disease. The infected larvae are usually found lying on their sides or curled up within their cells, and they may appear watery or discolored.

European Foulbrood is often seen in younger larvae, specifically in those that have not yet been capped, making early detection crucial for effective management and treatment. The disease may spread rapidly in colonies that are weak or stressed, often leading to a higher incidence in colonies that are not in optimal health.

The other conditions mentioned in the choices, such as American Foulbrood, typically result in dead larvae found in capped cells, which is different from what is observed with European Foulbrood. Chalkbrood and Sacbrood have distinct characteristics and developmental stages that manifest post-capping or when the larvae are older. Understanding these differences is vital for beekeepers to correctly diagnose and manage the health of their colonies.