What disease is caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae?

The disease caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae is indeed American foulbrood. This disease primarily affects the larval stages of honey bees and can have devastating effects on bee colonies if not managed properly. Infected larvae show signs of being discolored and decomposed, often resulting in a characteristic foul odor. The spores of this bacterium are highly resilient, allowing them to persist in the environment for extended periods, making it particularly challenging to control once a colony is infected.

American foulbrood is recognized for its rapid spread and severe impact on colonies. Beekeepers are trained to recognize the symptoms and determine treatment options, which may include antibiotics or burning of infected hives to prevent further spread. The persistence of Paenibacillus larvae in a hive makes regular inspections and biosecurity measures crucial for successful beekeeping practices.