Molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of Sacbrood virus in the Republic of Türkiye

Sacbrood virus (SBV), infecting both larva and adult honeybees, is one of the most common honeybee viruses encountered worldwide. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and genetic diversity of SBV in honeybees, and to determine the role of Varroa destructor (V. destructor) in the transmission of this virus. Adult honeybee samples were collected from randomly selected apiaries (n=62) in the Hatay Province in Türkiye. The presence of the V. destructor was investigated using a stereo microscope, whereas one step real time RT-PCR method was used to detect SBV in honeybees and V. destructor samples. It was determined that 8.1% (5/62) of the apiaries were infected with SBV. Furthermore, V. destructor was detected in 17 (27.4%) apiaries. However, the presence of SBV could not be detected in V. destructor samples. The results of the phylogenetic analysis, based on the SBV polyprotein gene, indicated that the isolates detected in this study belonged to the Türkiye genotype, displaying a separate cluster from the European-South American, Korean and Asian genotypes. This result suggests that genetic differences between SBV isolates vary depending on geographical distribution. Thus, further research is required to determine the SBV genotypes in Türkiye, and to understand the role of V. destructor in SBV transmission.