What is the outcome for bees infected with Black Queen Cell Virus?

The outcome for bees infected with Black Queen Cell Virus is characterized by high mortality rates. This virus primarily targets the queen bees and can lead to significant health issues within the hive. When a queen is infected, she may fail to lay eggs properly, resulting in a decline in the overall population of the colony as brood production diminishes. Infected bees often exhibit symptoms such as deformities and a range of behavioral changes, ultimately leading to the early death of both the queen and worker bees.

The impact of high mortality rates due to this virus can have devastating effects on the hive's ability to thrive, as a robust population is essential for foraging, hive maintenance, and reproduction. Consequently, under the pressure of this virus, a colony may struggle to sustain itself, leading to potential collapse. Understanding the effects of this virus is critical for beekeepers to mitigate its impact and maintain healthy bee populations.