New DNA Analysis Challenges Bee Origins: Western Honey Bees’ Surprising Journey from Northern Europe

The origins of honey bees may not align with conventional wisdom, according to a new study challenging the established narrative. DNA analysis suggests that the world’s most prevalent bee, the western honey bee (Apis mellifera), originated in northern Europe approximately 780,000 years ago, contradicting the commonly held belief that they evolved from Africa or Asia. Published on June 9 in Scientific Reports, the research led by Steve Carr, a biology professor at the Memorial University of Newfoundland in Canada, indicates that these bees first evolved in northern Europe before spreading to East Africa and Arabia around 660,000 years ago, followed by a migration into sub-Saharan Africa about 192,000 years ago.
To trace the bees’ global path, Carr analyzed the DNA of 78 bees representing 22 subspecies of the western honey bee. Comparing genetic sequences allowed him to identify the subspecies most closely related and track how bee populations migrated over time. Carr’s comprehensive analysis, which included more subspecies and bee genomes than previous studies, highlighted the northern European origin of these bees, challenging the traditional theories.
While some experts, like Kathleen Dogantzis from York University in Canada, acknowledged the value of Carr’s extensive study, they expressed disagreement with the conclusions. Dogantzis pointed out that despite the inclusion of more subspecies, the results align with previous studies proposing origins in West Asia or North Africa. She emphasized that differences in interpreting data patterns contribute to varying conclusions and suggested that ongoing research, considering additional subspecies, would be instrumental in reaching a more conclusive answer.
Dogantzis emphasized the importance of seeking the most consistent answer in resolving the debate over honey bee origins. Regardless of the differing perspectives, Carr highlighted the significance of understanding bee evolution for practical reasons. Bees play crucial roles in producing honey, wax, and serving as pollinators. Recognizing the relationships between different subspecies could aid in selecting the most suitable bees for specific tasks, providing practical benefits for various applications.

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