Probiotics and Prebiotics Improve Honeybee Survival in Extreme Temperatures
Recent research co-authored by Canadian and Iranian scientists suggests that probiotic and prebiotic supplements can enhance the survival rates of honeybees during extreme temperature fluctuations. The study indicates that these supplements could be critical for reducing winter mortality rates among bee colonies, which have seen significant losses—39.3% in the 2024-25 winter primarily due to parasitic mites, starvation, and extreme weather conditions.
Economic Importance of Beekeeping
In Canada, the beekeeping industry contributes an estimated $7 billion in harvest value, highlighting its vital role in agriculture, particularly for pollination services. The country ranked as the 12th largest honey producer globally in 2025, yielding 84,000 pounds.
Research Findings
The study, published in PLOS One, examined the effects of temperature on honeybees given sugar water supplemented with probiotics and prebiotics. Results showed that bees exposed to temperatures of 4°C, 15°C, 35°C, and 40°C had a higher survival rate when supplemented compared to those who were not. Importantly, bees with a higher concentration of supplements showed even better survival rates.
- Probiotics: Live bacteria that benefit gut health.
- Prebiotics: Non-digestible fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria.
The study indicates that probiotics may improve bees’ energy conservation, enhancing their ability to regulate their internal temperature. Probiotics can also bolster the immune response, helping bees fend off infections during stressful periods.
Regional Challenges
Iran and Canada deal with opposite temperature-related challenges—Canada with extreme cold and Iran with extreme heat. This unique cross-country collaboration highlights the broader implications of climate stress on honeybee health worldwide.
Future Directions
Researchers are keen to investigate whether these supplements can also improve bee survival against pesticides and generalize their benefits to other stressors like drought. The findings underline a pivotal shift in managing bee health, focusing on mitigating heat stress, which poses a significant challenge as climates warm.
Conclusion
With honeybee populations critical to global agriculture and food security, the potential of probiotics and prebiotics in improving bee resilience against climate extremes is a promising avenue for further research and beekeeping practices.
