Advances in Mite and Small Hive Beetle Management and Control

Authors: DE GUZMAN, LILIA

Submitted to: Proceedings, Asian Apicultural Association
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/14/2020
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The damage caused by parasitic mites and small hive beetles is a major constraint to maintaining healthy and productive Apis mellifera colonies. While Varroa destructor is the main problem of honey bees worldwide, Tropilaelaps mercedesae is a more serious parasite than Varroa in much of Asia. Unlike Varroa mites, Tropilaelaps does not undergo a phoretic period, and virgin females can produce both females and males. Tropilaelaps also feed on both pre- and post-capped stages of honey bees. As honey bee colonies weaken due to high levels of mite infestations, opportunistic small hive beetles (SHBs) can add significant stress to the already stressed colonies. To minimize colony losses, detecting and monitoring parasitic mites and SHBs are important to determine whether treatment is necessary or not. Many management tools are available. Although acaricides are readily available and quick to use, mites resistant to acaricides can develop in addition to product contamination. At present, no new acaricides or chemicals to control SHBs have been developed. In the US, mite-resistant stocks and several cultural practices are being used as a component of an Integrated Pest Management program. The pros and cons of these various control strategies will be presented and discussed.