1a.Objectives (from AD-416)
Improve our ability to maintain specific genetic types of honey bees by developing methods for the in vitro preservation of honey bee semen. Determine the biochemical and physiological environment that enables honey bee sperm to remain viable in queen spermathecae. Develop methods for the in vitro preservation of honey bee embryos. Design and implement a germplasm collection protocol.

1b.Approach (from AD-416)
The focus of this project is to develop practical methods of germplasm preservation for the honey bee, using cryopreservation and non-frozen systems. This technology is needed to preserve the genetic diversity of this species in the United States, especially because of severe colony losses to parasitic mites and diseases, and to assist in the selection of superior stocks of bees. Once preservation methodology is available, a collection scheme to maximize diversity in preserved germplasm will be needed.

3.Progress Report
The research described in this progess report is relevant to National Program 305 (Crop Production), Action Plan Component II (Bees and Pollination), Problem Area A (Honey bees). This report serves to document research conducted on project 1275-21220-212-00D Preservation of Honey Bee Germplasm. In FY08 some progress was made on this project but many of the objectives were not fully met because the lead SY retired on September 30, 2006 and the position has not been re-filled. Scientists were able to demonstrate that cryo-preserved semen when artificially inseminated into queen bees resulted in viability offspring, thereby confirming that cryo-preservation of bee semen is possible. This milestone was partially met because the lead SY on this project, although retired, has continued as a collaborator and has had success in using a commercially available swine semen extender (“Safe Cell”) as a cryo-protectant of bee semen and produced viable brood from cryo-preserved bee semen. Both cryo-preserved and non-frozen stored semen was shown to function in the fertilization of eggs at a level that will ensure a usable colony. This will provide queen breeders and scientists with new means for the long term storage of semen.

5.Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations
None.

6.Technology Transfer

None