Figure 1. Steady decline of honey bee colonies from 1989-2008. Source: National Agricultural Statistics Service
The Buzz About Bee Decline
Honey bees are vital to our food system, pollinating about three-quarters of the crops we eat. But since the 1990s, their numbers have been dropping fast. This decline is due to several factors, including pesticides, diseases, and—most importantly—malnutrition. When bees don’t get the right nutrients, their health suffers, and this can lead to shorter lifespans and fewer successful colonies.
The Power of a Diverse Diet
Just like us, bees need a varied diet to thrive. They rely on a mix of nectar and pollen for energy and essential nutrients. Unfortunately, modern farming practices, especially monoculture—where only one type of crop is grown—have drastically reduced the variety of flowers available for bees. In the U.S., we’ve lost over 98% of natural plant habitats, and the U.K. has seen a similar loss of wildflowers. With fewer food options, bees struggle to get the diverse nutrition they need.
Figure 2: Metabolite deficiency in gut microbiota-free bees leads to altered behaviors (Source)
The Importance of Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and play a crucial role in bee health. They support everything from growth to memory and foraging abilities. Many beekeepers try to supplement bee diets, but simply adding protein isn’t enough if the overall nutrition is lacking.
Enter ApiVera: A Game-Changer for Bee Health
That’s where ApiVera comes in. This innovative hive treatment not only helps combat diseases but also tackles nutritional gaps. It combines powerful amino acids with sugar to give bees a boost.
Figure 3: ApiVera fogger is placed on top of existing Lanstrogth hives. Beekeepers add water and an ApiVera nutrient supplement or miticide into activation chamber.
Here's How Certain Amino Acids Help
A Bright Future for Bees
By adding these amino acids to their diets, we can help bees not only fight off diseases but also thrive nutritionally. ApiVera’s solution offers a way to improve bee health and boost their overall productivity. As honey bee populations face significant challenges, focusing on their nutrition is more important than ever. Solutions like ApiVera provide hope for our buzzing friends, supporting both their health and the ecosystem. Let’s advocate for practices that protect and nourish our pollinators, ensuring they continue to play their vital role in our food supply and environment. Together, we can make a difference!
Recommended Products
ApiVera Portable Hive Fogger
The ApiVera Portable Hive Fogger gives beekeepers flexibility and control in the field. This model operates with a cord but can draw power from a range of sources, including a power bank, wall outlet, or car outlet—making it easy to use wherever your hives are located. Lightweight and simple to move from hive to hive, it’s well-suited for daily use across small or large apiaries alike.
1 size
$999
ApiVera Nutrients
Strengthen your colonies from the inside out. ApiVera Hive Health Nutrients deliver a balanced blend of amino acids and carbohydrates that support brood development, improve resilience, and promote overall colony vitality. Designed for use with both the Portable and High Efficiency Hive Foggers, this nutrient treatment is safe for bees and beekeepers, and easy to apply.
1 size
$90
