The number one enemy of beekeepers: Varroa destructor
Varroa (Varroa destructor) is a parasitic mite of honey bees that is prevalent in almost all other countries globally. Its detrimental effects on honey bee colonies are well known. Varroa mites reproduce in the capped brood of bees, then spread throughout the bee colony, weakening them, and transmitting viruses and diseases.
It is estimated that an infested and untreated bee colony can die within 6 months to 2 years.1 Varroa mites will also be transmitted from one hive to another via adult bees (drift, robbing) or human activity (transhumance, importation of swarms, etc.). Thus contributing to the spread of the parasite between operations and countries.
Habit is the worst enemy in the fight against varroa.
We can no longer apply the same control strategy every year with the hope of achieving the same result.
Every year is different
The main difficulty of varroa control is to adapt and re-evaluate one’s practices constantly.
The infestation does not only vary between hives and apiaries but also from one year to another. Not to mention changing climatic conditions and changing population dynamics… We can no longer apply the same control strategy every year in the hope of obtaining the same result.
Did you know?
A Varroa infestation of 3% can reduce honey production by an average of 5 kg of honey per hive and up to 13 kg per year (28 pounds).2
Integrated varroa mite management
Implementing an integrated control of this parasite is of major importance. It allows not only to control the infestation of the treated colony, but also to limit the sanitary impact on neighboring apiaries and the bee population in general.
The challenge is now to allow beekeepers to adapt treatments and control measures to each situation. This requires training for beekeepers, the availability of more effective and practical diagnostic tools, and the development of a greater number of authorized, effective and safe treatments (safe for the beekeeper, for the bees and for the products of the hive).
A popular guide for beekeepers summarizing all the information about varroa mites: biology, mite monitoring and treatment strategy.
Does a stronger bee colony lead to higher varroa mite infestation?
Table of Contents A bee colony at its population peak demonstrates significantly enhanced productivity, improved pollination efficiency, and superior broodstock rearing capabilities [1]. Gąbka et al (2014) has established a strong positive correlation between colony strength, brood quantity, and honey production [1]. Furthermore, densely populated hives exhibit more robust defense mechanisms against predators such as… Continue reading Does a stronger bee colony lead to higher varroa mite infestation?
The role of pesticides exposure in the explosion of varroa mite infestation
Table of Contents Beekeepers have increasingly reported significant spikes in Varroa destructor infestations after moving their bees to certain crops [1]. This phenomenon raises concerns about the interactive effects of pesticides and parasitic pressures on honey bee health. Recently, Bartlett et al. 2024 investigates how neonicotinoid exposure exacerbates varroa mite infestations [2]. This study explores… Continue reading The role of pesticides exposure in the explosion of varroa mite infestation
Potential interactions between oxalic acid and amitraz in controlling varroa mites
The contents of this page are intended for the American public. The instructions for use of the miticites mentioned comply with US regulations. Table of contents Beekeeping involves carefully managing bee colonies to ensure their health while combating pests and diseases that endanger their survival. A major concern for beekeepers globally is effectively controlling Varroa… Continue reading Potential interactions between oxalic acid and amitraz in controlling varroa mites
Understanding flash vs. slow-release varroa treatments
The contents of this page are intended for the American public. The instructions for use of the miticites mentioned comply with US regulations. Table of contents In the context of acaricidal treatments, it is common practice among beekeepers to rely on the guidance of fellow apiarists when selecting products and application methods. However, it is… Continue reading Understanding flash vs. slow-release varroa treatments
Amitraz Resistance in French Varroa Mites: Not Related to a Single Mutation
Study on varroa mites reveals complex mechanisms behind amitraz resistance, questioning the role of the ORβ-2R-L gene mutation.
Same concentration, different outcome: understanding variability in varroa mite treatments
Beyond concentration lies formulation, dosage, and bee biology for effective solutions of treatments for healthier bees.
References
1- Varroa mites and honey bee health: can Varroa explain part of the colony losses?, Yves Le Conte, Marion Ellis and Wolfgang Ritter, Apidologie 41 (3) 353-363 (2010)
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1051/apido/2010017
2- Maisonnasse et al, 2014 – Study carried out by INRA (France) between 2009 and 2012 on 552 hives. Average of 5kg [11lbs] (up to 13kg, or 28lbs, per year) on a lavender honeyflow.
VTP-73-EX-N02-02/22