US honey bee deaths reach record high; Varroa mites threaten crops and drive up food prices

US honey bee colonies are facing unprecedented losses due to pesticide-resistant Varroa mites, leading to the spread of deadly viruses. This threatens American agriculture, potentially increasing food costs and reducing the availability of essential crops like almonds and apples. Researchers are urgently seeking solutions, including breeding mite-resistant bees, to mitigate the devastating impact on pollination and food security.