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Modeling Pollen-Mediated Virus Spread in Bee Colonies as a Classroom Activity.

ABSTRACT: Using a hands-on approach, this activity introduces students to the concept of viral spread and honey bee pathogenesis by illustrating pathogen transmission throughout the hive. This viral transmission activity, designed for introductory biology, virology, or microbiology classes, can be used in laboratory or lecture settings. Students are provided with information on viral transmission and hive structure. Students then retrieve "pollen" and distribute it to the colony. A UV light passed across students' hands determines which hive was infected, indicating the viral transmission pathways among bees. Students then discuss how viruses impact bees, how long it would take an infected hive to succumb to the pathogen, and what can be done to prevent viral spread.

SUBMITTER: Snow VE

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6508916 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Modeling Pollen-Mediated Virus Spread in Bee Colonies as a Classroom Activity.

Snow Veronica E VE Becker Donna M DM Sharp Josh S JS

Journal of microbiology & biology education 20190426 1

Using a hands-on approach, this activity introduces students to the concept of viral spread and honey bee pathogenesis by illustrating pathogen transmission throughout the hive. This viral transmission activity, designed for introductory biology, virology, or microbiology classes, can be used in laboratory or lecture settings. Students are provided with information on viral transmission and hive structure. Students then retrieve "pollen" and distribute it to the colony. A UV light passed across ...[more]

PMID: 31160944

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