Which bacteria is known to cause American Foulbrood in honeybees?

The bacterium known to cause American Foulbrood in honeybees is Paenibacillus. This bacterium specifically targets the larval stage of honeybees, leading to a highly infectious disease that can wipe out entire colonies if not managed properly.

Understanding the characteristics of Paenibacillus is critical for beekeepers because it produces spores that can survive for long periods, making it difficult to eradicate once introduced into an apiary. The spores are resistant to extreme conditions, allowing the bacterium to persist in the environment and in contaminated equipment.

When diagnosing American Foulbrood, beekeepers should be familiar with the symptoms caused by Paenibacillus, including the presence of dead larvae that have a characteristic twisted appearance, as well as a distinct odor.

The other bacteria listed are not associated with American Foulbrood, making them irrelevant in this context. Bacillus cereus may cause other infections but is not responsible for this specific disease in honeybees. Escherichia coli and Streptococcus pneumoniae are primarily associated with human diseases, not with honeybee health. Thus, recognizing Paenibacillus is crucial for effective disease management in beekeeping.