About this Research Topic

Background

Beekeeping is an industry highly valued for its contribution to food production, as honey bees (Apis mellifera L) are an integral component of commercial pollination services and consequently food security. In addition, honey bees provide pollination services to wild plants, contributing to the maintenance of ecosystems and agrosystems. In recent years, the beekeeping industry has faced a number of challenges globally including emerging pests and diseases, changing climate patterns, and a number of environmental stressors that compromise honey bee health and colony survival. To promote bee health, a number of research efforts are taking place on different scales, including the development of novel treatments against pests and diseases, developing techniques to adapt to climate change, or developing nutritional supplements to support bee health.

Controlled laboratory research has set the foundation to propose solutions in the field of apiculture. However, applied research, technology transfer, and knowledge transfer are key components to the advancement and implementation of new technology. Additionally, innovative approaches on science communication, citizen science generated knowledge, and knowledge transfer have recently provided significant contributions to this field. These combined efforts are essential to support the beekeeping industry to achieve profitability, increase honey bee health, and decrease colony mortality.

The goal of this research topic is to update the information on applied research and technology transfer and facilitate the dissemination of relevant studies, and to provide a space to discuss the role and the future of Technology Transfer Programs and Extension specialists in the field of apiculture.

In particular, we are interested in original research articles, review articles, mini reviews, perspective articles, data reports, and brief research reports on field studies focused on supporting bee health through the testing of novel products and novel treatment applications, studies on integrated pest management, sustainable beekeeping practices, best management practices, overwintering techniques, citizen science-based research, university-to-industry knowledge transfer, and strategies on science communication.

Keywords: Beekeeping, Apiculture, Applied Science, Applied Research, Technology Transfer, Knowledge Transfer, Integrated Pest Management, Best Management, Science Communication, Extensionism, Bee Health

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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