Projects / Programmes
Gentic characteristics of carniolan honey bee
| Code |
Science |
Field |
Subfield |
| 4.02.01 |
Biotechnical sciences |
Animal production |
Genetics and selection |
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| B220 |
Biomedical sciences |
Genetics, cytogenetics |
| Code |
Science |
Field |
| 4.04 |
Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences |
Agricultural biotechnology |
carniolan honey bee, genetic structure, parentage control, mtDNA, quantitative trait loci, morpholog
Researchers (16)
Organisations (2)
Abstract
Project proposal addresses a complex issue of genetic characterization of the Cariolan honey bee. Due to recent findings about much higher genetic variation present in the Slovenian population of Apis mellifera carnica, than expected previously, there is a basic question whether the genetic richness of the population has been underestimated in the past or was there some uncontrolled introduction of foreign genetic material from the neighboring populations. In order to address these questions, we propose a number of different genetic approaches including development of new SNP micro array and sequencing of gut mirobiota. To answer the question about possible introgression of genetic material into Slovenian population of Apis mellifera carnica we will analyze about ten years old archive material using mtDNA sequencing and a panel of microsatellite loci and compare results with the results from our recent study on samples collected in 2009 and 2010. Morphological traits (cubital index and color of abdominal rings) will be analyzed and used as criterion for description of carniolan hony bee. Based on honey bee genome sequence, EST data and targeted sequencing of local samples we will develop a set of informative SNP markers and use it for SNP micro array which will be applied for genotyping of Slovenian and neighbor populations of honey bees. In order to find specific differences among carniolan bees from different regions in Slovenia (possible ecotypes), we will sequence gut microbiota and compare microbial populations among individuals and geographic regions. For the study of important behavioral and metabolic properties we will establish honey bee cell lines of different genetic background and study differences in the transcriptome after treatment with different chemicals. Complex analysis of the entire set of data will allow us to detect subtle differences and possible structure in the population of Apis mellifera carnica in Slovenia and define specific properties, which characterize this population. By introducing physical control of the origin of quinns produced in Slovenia, we aim also to increase confidence in the trade mark AUTHENTIC CARNIOLAN.
Significance for science
The results of the project are linking the use of genetic methods for characterization of populations of honey bees with the situation in the Carniolan bee population in Slovenia. Since Slovenia is a relatively closed habitat and bee traffic in Slovenia is free, it is expected that due to the transport beekeeping differences between local verieties are gradually disappearing. At the same time, the population is exposed to pressure from neighboring populations and unsystematic and sporadic introduction of non-native bees. Under these circumstances, the situation in the population of the Carniolan bee in Slovenia is very interesting and with the detailed study of the genetic structure of population we can conclude about the events in the near and distant past that formed genetic mechanisms that affect this population. In this aspect, the population of the Carniolan bee represents a very interesting research material.
Significance for the country
Preservation of the Carniolan bee is for Slovenian agriculture one of the main conservation objectives. Carniolan bee is one of the most important genetic resources, which is central as well for the national agriculture as for the international community, giving the republic of Slovenia the bulk of responsibility for its preservation. As the bee is also an important bioindicator and pollinator, of course, its importance goes far beyond the direct objective the production of honey. Proper positioning of Slovenian apiculture in an international context and to ensure the existence and development of this genetic resource is an important task of our agriculture and also wider care about our nature and environment.
Most important scientific results
Annual report
2011,
2012,
final report,
complete report on dLib.si
Most important socioeconomically and culturally relevant results
Annual report
2011,
2012,
final report,
complete report on dLib.si
