Research programs focus on the health of honey bees, behavioral traits that are important in beekeeping, and honey bee genetics. Mapping the genome of the honey bee and identifying regions of the chromosomes that influence defensive behavior (stinging and nest guarding) has led us to the identification of potential genes that influence behavior. The honeybee can be used as a model for behavioral genetics while studying behaviors that are important to beekeepers. A cooperative breeding program with Indiana beekeepers is underway to develop stocks of bees that are more tolerant of parasitic Varroa mites and produce good honey crops under Indiana conditions.
Websites
The "Purdue Bee Hive"
Honey bees are critical to our nation's agriculture and are also are fascinating creatures to study because of their many interesting social behaviors. We are applying genomic techniques to detect genes that influence specific bee behaviors..Author: Dr. Greg Hunt
Indiana State Beekeepers Association
Welcome beekeepers, family and friends. The 2007 Indiana State Beekeepers Fall Meeting is being held in Danville Indiana at the new Hendricks County Fairgrounds on Saturday October, 27.
Indiana Beekeepers' Association & Beekeeping Resources
The Indiana Beekeepers' Association (IBA) was started in 1998. With educational focus and with members statewide, it has become Indiana's largest beekeeping group (over 750 members). Year round programs help to keep its members up-to-date on all matters about beekeeping.
Beekeeping Publications
Staff
Dr. Greg Hunt
Associate Professor, Behavioral Genetics and Honey Bee Extension EntomologyOffice Phone: 494-4605
Office Number: WSLR 220
Lab Number: WSLR 218
Office Phone: 494-6747
Email: ghunt@purdue.edu
Biographical Information: