Inhibition of Paenibacillus larvae by lactic acid bacteria isolated from fermented materials

► Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from fermented materials were characterized for use as probiotics in honeybees. ► These LAB inhibited the in vitro growth of Paenibacillus larvae, the causal agent of American foulbrood. ► Selected LAB induced the expression of antimicrobial peptide genes in honeybees. ► These LAB could be used for the control of bacterial pathogens in apiculture.