Which bacterium is known to cause European Foulbrood (EFB)?

The bacterium responsible for causing European Foulbrood (EFB) is Melissococcus plutonius. This pathogen specifically affects honeybee larvae, leading to their death and resulting in significant colony losses if not managed properly. It enters the larva through contaminated food and proliferates within the digestive tract, ultimately causing the characteristic symptoms of EFB, such as discolored and foul-smelling brood.

The relevance of understanding the causative agent of EFB is crucial for beekeepers, as recognizing the signs can help in early diagnosis and management strategies, including potential treatments or preventative measures to safeguard bee colonies against this disease. Effective bee management involves identifying pathogens like Melissococcus plutonius to ensure the health and productivity of the colony.