Greek scientists are on the alert for Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), which has resulted in beehives’ denizens mysteriously disappearing in numerous countries around the world. CCD, which has yet to appear in Greece, occurs when worker bees from a hive abruptly disappear for no apparent reason.

The problem has hit the US hard, as well as some European countries, including Germany and Switzerland.

“We are on the alert. If CCD appears in Greece, the consequences could be massive,” said Paschalis Harizanis, a professor at the Agricultural University of Athens.

Greece has one of the largest bee populations in the world on a relative basis, with nine beehives for every square kilometer.

Greece is the European Union’s third-largest honey maker, producing 14,000 tons every year.