Which common disease primarily affects adult bees?

Nosema is a common disease that primarily affects adult bees, specifically the honeybee. This disease is caused by a microsporidian parasite, Nosema apis or Nosema ceranae, which infects the intestines of adult bees. Affected bees can experience digestive issues, reduced lifespan, and decreased foraging efficiency, leading to overall colony decline.

Nosema typically manifests in adult bees rather than in developing larvae or pupae, distinguishing it from other honeybee diseases. In contrast, foulbrood and chalkbrood primarily attack the brood (larvae and pupae), while varroosis is caused by parasitic mites that infest adult bees but is more of a pest issue than a disease like Nosema. Understanding the lifecycle and specific targets of these diseases is crucial for effective beekeeping management and disease control strategies.