Which of the following is a symptom of American Foul Brood (AFB)?

American Foul Brood (AFB) is a serious bacterial disease caused by the pathogen Paenibacillus larvae, which primarily affects the larvae of honeybees. One of the hallmark symptoms of AFB is the appearance of infected larvae. When larvae are affected by AFB, they often turn dark and become sticky or “ropey” when disturbed, due to the stringy, putrid consistency of the dead larval remains. This characteristic “ropey” appearance is a key indicator of the disease and is critical for beekeepers to recognize in order to manage and control the spread of AFB in their hives.

In contrast, shiny winged adults, brighter nectar, and increased honey production do not relate to symptoms of AFB. Shiny winged adults might be observed in healthy bee populations or in response to other factors but are not indicative of AFB. Brighter nectar and increased honey production are unrelated to the symptoms of a disease affecting larvae. Understanding the specific symptoms and signs of AFB is essential for beekeeping management and ensuring the health of bee colonies.