“Saving The Bees Is Burning Down The House” – Triplex qPCR Using Dual-Target Assays For The Highly Pathogenic Bacteria American Foulbrood, Using Novel eDNA Methods

Abstract
American Foulbrood (AFB) is the most devastating pathogen of honeybee diseases. It is estimated that AFB has a minimum direct cost of more than US$7 million dollars per year to New Zealand beekeepers. Worse, the incidence of the disease is increasing at an estimated 15% per year. We have developed a multiplex qPCR for AFB and are using this to screen bee and honey samples, as well as testing new sampling strategies to predict the development of this disease and prevent further spread.
A snapback high resolution melting method for multiple SNP resolution in apiculture will be also be described.