Abstract

American Foul Brood (AFB) is the most widespread and destructive of the bee brood diseases caused by spore-forming bacteria Paenibacillus larvae. Although this disease is well known, AFB is still a relevant cause of beehive and economic losses to beekeepers. In fact, spores of P. larvae are very resistant and remain viable almost indefinitely in spore-contaminated hive components as well as equipment being a potential source of infection. An efficient control of AFB can be obtained only when the detection of AFB-contaminated hives is rapid and reliable and their destruction is carried out promptly. Burning infected colonies is an effective way of
killing spores, interrupting the disease cycle. However, since this results in hives destruction, it is not well accepted by beekeepers. Beekeeping practices play an important role in maintaining colonies free from AFB. Colonies managed according to good beekeeping practices granting homogeneous strength of the colonies within the apiary, adequate food supply and appropriate care from the beekeeper, have less chances to develop AFB. Physico-chemical-based hive sanitizing procedures and the lethal effect of gamma radiation treatments on AFB-spores and vegetative forms are reviewed. The use of chemotherapy is to be discouraged since its efficacy is temporary and only limited to the vegetative form of the bacteria, despite this practice is legal in some countries. Furthermore, the presence of residues in honey and other beehive products is very likely to occur. No method of treatment for AFB is completely effective for permanent control.