What are the two main categories of honey bee diseases?

The two main categories of honey bee diseases are infectious and non-infectious diseases. Infectious diseases refer to those caused by pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which can spread from one bee to another, often leading to colony losses if not managed properly. Examples of infectious diseases in bees include American foulbrood and varroosis.

Non-infectious diseases, on the other hand, are not caused by pathogens but can still have significant impacts on the health of the hive. These can result from various factors, such as poor nutrition, chemical exposure (like pesticide toxicity), or environmental stressors. Non-infectious issues can weaken bees and make them more susceptible to infections and other challenges.

Understanding the distinction between these two categories helps beekeepers identify the source of issues affecting their colonies and implement appropriate management strategies to ensure their bees remain healthy.