Disease ecology
As a disease ecology lab we are largely interested in how infections move across the diverse members of a honey bee colony. Specifically, we are interested in how behaviors drive transmission of pathogens. We begin with individuals, finding specific tasks, heterogeneities and conditions that influence transmission. Our research grows from here. Ultimately by quantitatively and quantitatively describing these interactions, we can model the system as a whole. Our lab is currently studying how key individuals act as superspreaders of common honey bee viruses. We are working with stakeholders to identify prevalence of risk in commercially managed colonies. We are developing therapeutics for those individuals.
Working with stakeholders
Our lab works directly with commercial beekeepers in the United States. By maintaining strong relationships we keep a pulse on industry needs and emerging problems. Currently we are working with queen producers across the country to improve queen health. We know this work is important, and will lead to higher colony survival for commercial pollinators. As a result, the research in our lab supports pollination for specialty crops across the United States.
Service lab
The Lamas lab is also a core facility at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. We receive samples from beekeepers, state inspectors, and other agencies. We provide pathogen screenings and genomic targets as a service. This service is beneficial for commercial beekeepers who want to know what pathogens are impacting their bees. For others, like state inspectors, we can confirm disease diagnostics using molecular targets or screen for invasive species using molecular techniques.