What effect does Nosema have on worker bees' lifespans?

Nosema, a microsporidian parasite that infects honey bees, particularly targets the digestive tract of worker bees. The presence of Nosema in a colony can lead to various health issues, including dysentery, poor nutrient absorption, and general weakening of the immune system. These factors combined contribute to a significant decrease in the lifespan of infected worker bees.

Research indicates that worker bees can have their lifespans drastically reduced due to the stress and physiological disruptions caused by the Nosema infection. Infected bees often exhibit symptoms such as decreased foraging efficiency, reduced brood care, and overall vulnerability to other pathogens, which accelerates their mortality rate. Therefore, it is accurate to conclude that the infection with Nosema decreases the lifespans of worker bees, making them more susceptible to environmental stresses and less capable of contributing to the hive's health and productivity.