An independent encyclopedia
Apisanitas aims to bring together reliable, practical information on honey bee health, in several languages: diseases, parasites, viruses, predators, poisoning and apiary hygiene. The site is not linked to any manufacturer of medicines or equipment, and no brand pays to be mentioned.
Where the information comes from
Each factsheet relies first and foremost on:
- peer-reviewed scientific publications (research papers, reviews, reference works such as the COLOSS BEEBOOK);
- official documents from animal health authorities: the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), national agencies, agriculture ministries and veterinary services;
- technical guides from recognised beekeeping institutes and networks.
Sources are cited in the text by number and listed at the bottom of each factsheet, with a link wherever possible (DOI for scientific papers).
How a factsheet is written
- Literature search: gathering recent publications and regulatory texts on the topic.
- Scientific synthesis: data from these sources is cross-checked and synthesised following a common structure (biology, symptoms, diagnosis, regulation, prevention, practical box, common mistakes, FAQ).
- Fact-checking: figures, product names, regulatory status and references (including DOIs) are checked one by one. Anything that cannot be verified is removed or worded cautiously.
- Validation by professional beekeepers: each factsheet is reviewed by professional beekeepers, who check that the information is relevant and works in the field. Until this validation is complete, the factsheet shows “Review in progress”.
What we do not do
- No dosages: doses and directions for use of medicines belong to the product leaflet and your veterinarian. Factsheets always refer to these sources.
- No remote diagnosis: suspected notifiable diseases must be reported to the veterinary authorities of your country.
- No images with unverified licences: photos are public domain or used with permission, and always credited.
Updates
Bee research moves fast, and so do regulations and the lists of authorised medicines. Factsheets are reviewed regularly; the date of the last update appears at the bottom of each one.
Report an error
Spotted something inaccurate, outdated or incomplete? Write to contact@apisanitas.org, naming the factsheet and, if possible, your source. Corrections are made after verification.
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