Varroa

Varroa destructor, 1 2019-09-06-19.12.07 ZS PMax UDR (48697155713)

Varroa destructor2 2019-09-06-19.10.23 ZS PMax UDR (48697673082)

Varroa is a genus of parasitic mites that primarily affects honey bees. The most well-known species within this genus is Varroa destructor, which is a significant pest to Apis mellifera, the Western honey bee. These mites are external parasites that feed on the bodily fluids of adult bees and their brood, leading to weakened bees and the spread of various viral diseases.

Biology

Varroa mites are small, reddish-brown parasites that are visible to the naked eye. They have a flattened, oval shape, which allows them to easily attach to the bodies of bees. The life cycle of Varroa mites includes both a phoretic phase, where they attach to adult bees, and a reproductive phase, which occurs within the brood cells of the hive.

Life Cycle

The reproductive phase begins when a female mite enters a brood cell just before it is capped. She lays eggs on the developing bee pupa, and the offspring feed on the pupa's hemolymph. The mites reproduce rapidly, and a single infested brood cell can produce multiple generations of mites.

Impact on Honey Bees

Varroa mites are one of the most significant threats to honey bee populations worldwide. They weaken bees by feeding on their hemolymph, which reduces the bees' ability to forage and increases their susceptibility to diseases. The mites are also vectors for several honey bee viruses, including Deformed Wing Virus and Acute Bee Paralysis Virus.

Management and Control

Controlling Varroa mite infestations is crucial for maintaining healthy bee colonies. Beekeepers use a variety of methods to manage mite populations, including chemical treatments, mechanical controls, and breeding for mite-resistant bee strains.

Chemical Treatments

Chemical treatments, such as miticides, are commonly used to reduce mite populations. However, mites can develop resistance to these chemicals, making them less effective over time.

Mechanical Controls

Mechanical controls include methods like drone brood removal and screened bottom boards, which help reduce mite numbers without the use of chemicals.

Breeding for Resistance

Some beekeepers focus on breeding honey bees that are naturally resistant to Varroa mites. These bees exhibit behaviors such as hygienic behavior, where they remove infested brood from the hive, thereby reducing mite reproduction.

Related Pages

• Apis mellifera
• Honey bee viruses
• Deformed Wing Virus
• Acute Bee Paralysis Virus
• Hygienic behavior

See Also

• Beekeeping
• Pollination
• Colony Collapse Disorder

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