Uses and benefits of algae as a nutritional supplement for honey bees

Authors: NICHOLS, BENJAMIN - University Of Nebraska; Ricigliano, Vincent

Submitted to: Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/6/2022
Publication Date: 11/4/2022
Citation: Nichols, B.J., Ricigliano, V.A. 2022. Uses and benefits of algae as a nutritional supplement for honey bees. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems. 6:1005058. https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2022.1005058.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2022.1005058

Interpretive Summary: Honey bees are important pollinators that are threatened by human land use practices and climate change. In recent decades, various interacting stressors have led to significant colony losses, posing risks to beekeeping industries and human food security. Malnutrition is a major factor underlying bee colony losses that can be offset by feeding colonies artificial diets, which aim to deliver essential macro- and micronutrients. Current feed supplements are understudied, have mixed results, or require resources that compete with human food production. Algae and microalgae in particular have been gaining traction in the literature as alternative feed sources and nutritional supplements for livestock, including honey bees. Here, we review the current literature and categorize the effects of algae supplementation on honey bee colony productivity as well as effects on individual bee physiology. In general, we conclude that algae biomass appears to be suitable for use as a bee feed additive and as a source of health-modulating natural products. Additionally, we suggest research areas that could improve the development of algae-based nutrition supplements for honey bees.

Technical Abstract: Managed honey bees are essential agricultural pollinators that are threatened by anthropogenic activities and climate change. In recent decades, various interacting stressors have led to significant colony losses, posing risks to beekeeping industries and human food security. Malnutrition is a major factor underlying bee colony losses that can be offset by feeding colonies artificial diets, which aim to deliver essential macro- and micronutrients. Current feed supplements are understudied, have mixed results, or require resources that compete with human food production. Algae and microalgae in particular have been gaining traction in the literature as alternative feed sources and nutritional supplements for livestock, including honey bees. Here, we review the current literature and categorize the effects of algae supplementation on honey bee colony productivity as well as effects on individual bee physiology. In general, we conclude that algae biomass appears to be suitable for use as a bee feed additive and as a source of health-modulating natural products. Additionally, we suggest research areas that could improve the development of algae-based nutrition supplements for honey bees.