2007 Annual Report 1a.Objectives (from AD-416) Improve our ability to maintain specific genetic types of honey bees by developing methods for the in vitro preservation of honey bee semen. Determine the biochemical and physiological environment that enables honey bee sperm to remain viable in queen spermathecae. Develop methods for the in vitro preservation of honey bee embryos. Design and implement a germplasm collection protocol. 1b.Approach (from AD-416) The focus of this project is to develop practical methods of germplasm preservation for the honey bee, using cryopreservation and non-frozen systems. This technology is needed to preserve the genetic diversity of this species in the United States, especially because of severe colony losses to parasitic mites and diseases, and to assist in the selection of superior stocks of bees. Once preservation methodology is available, a collection scheme to maximize diversity in preserved germplasm will be needed. 4.Accomplishments The sequencing and publication of the honey bee genome: The sequencing of the honey bee genome was published in Nature this past year and reflects an enormous effort by the scientific community. Bee Research Laboratory personnel were instrumental in the conception and completion of this accomplishment. Scientists at the Bee Research Laboratory worked to annotate the genome and were authors on the Nature paper. A companion paper dealing with proteomics of male reproductive tissue was made possible with the completion of the bee genome. The honey bee genome will open new opportunities to explore bee health, behavior and physiology and in tern improve beekeeping and pollination. This research is in direct support of NP 305 component III, Bee Management and Pollination. 5.Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations None 6.Technology Transfer Number of web sites managed 1 Number of non-peer reviewed presentations and proceedings 3 Number of newspaper articles and other presentations for non-science audiences 2