You are a habitat. An ecosystem A microbiome. The most popularised microbiome, and commercialised, is your "friendly" gut bacteria. Probiotic drinks and yogurts are a common product in supermarkets, but humans are not unique in supporting a microbiome. Every living organism has its microbiomes and honey bees are no different. In fact, recent research has shown that colonies positioned near areas of low biodiversity (think improved grassland for pasture or conifer plantations) have decreased bacterial diversity in their diet. So like humans, healthy bees need diversity in their diet. Variety really is the spice of life.
Certain habitats, such as improved grasslands, are associated with low diversity bee breads, meaning that these environments may be poor sources of bee‐associated bacteria. Decreased bee bread bacterial diversity may result in reduced function within hives. Although the dispersal of microbes is ubiquitous, this study has demonstrated landscape‐level effects on microbial community composition.
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