2011 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) The objectives of this agreement are to determine the effects of pathogens and pesticides on honey bee health. We propose to conduct pathogenicity experiments with specific pathogens recently identified and linked to colony collapse disorder (CCD). Additionally, sequencing of the genomes of two microsporidain species (Nosema apis and N. ceranae) is proposed under this agreement. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) Honey bees will be exposed to viruses, bacteria, fungi or pesticides and monitored for effects including longevity. Interactions between pathogens and pesticides will be explored by exposing bees to pesticides and pathogens in specific pairs. Fluvalinate and coumaphos will be tested along with newly identified bee pathogens to determine if either act alone or in combination to impact bee health. The sequencing of the Nosema genomes will be accomplished through collaboration with the 4-5-4 sequencing center. 3.Progress Report In FY 2011, exploration by deep sequencing of previously collected honey bee samples was accomplished to look for a recently identified bee virus that may play a role in bee health. The research relates directly to the objectives of the parent project to determine factors affecting honey bee colony health. During the life of this collaboration between USDA-ARS and Columbia University, two high impact publications (one in Science) on bee viruses and one on the genome of Nosema ceranae were published. The progress of this project was being monitored with face-to-face meetings and e-mail and phone conversations between the parties involved.