Beekeeper alert: Varroa is at your doorstep!
The Varroa Destructor, a formidable parasitic mite for bees, is rapidly spreading worldwide.
In Europe, it is present in all countries of Western and Central Europe.
This article aims to raise awareness among European beekeepers about the threat posed by the varroa and to provide them with information to combat this parasite.
What is Varroa?
Varroa destructor is a parasitic mite of Asian origin that seriously threatens honey bees worldwide. This parasite, measuring approximately 1 mm in length and reddish-brown in color, feeds on the hemolymph of bees, thereby weakening their immune system and making them more susceptible to diseases. In addition to its direct impact on bee health, varroa can also transmit viruses, thus contributing to the deterioration of bee colonies.
First detected in Europe in the 1970s, varroa has rapidly spread globally and is now present in most regions where beekeeping is practiced. Its rapid spread is attributed to its ability to easily move from one colony to another and its longevity outside of its host. Due to these characteristics, varroa has become a difficult parasite to eradicate, posing a major challenge for beekeepers worldwide.
What are the symptoms of varroa infestation?
Symptoms of varroa infestation may include:
General Symptoms:
- Decrease in colony population: Varroa weakens bees and makes them more susceptible to diseases, which can lead to a decrease in colony population.
- Decrease in honey production: Varroa-infested bees are less productive and may produce less honey.
- Deformed or weakened bees: Varroa can deform the wings of bees and make them weaker.
More specific symptoms:
- Presence of varroa on bees: You may observe varroa mites with the naked eye on the bodies of bees, especially on the thorax and abdomen.
- Presence of varroa in honey: You may also find varroa mites in honey if the infestation is significant.
- Presence of "brood in mosaic" : Varroa can prevent bees from laying eggs in certain cells, giving the brood an irregular appearance.
- Black spots on brood caps: Varroa mites can leave black spots on brood caps when they emerge from cells.
- Abnormal behavior of bees: Varroa-infested bees may exhibit abnormal behavior, such as being more agitated or having difficulty flying.
It is important to note that not all of these symptoms are necessarily specific to varroa.
How to fight varroa?
There are several methods to combat varroa, including:
- Chemical treatments: There are chemical products available to kill varroa mites. However, these products can be toxic to bees and the environment.
- Biological treatments: There are also biological treatments, such as thyme essential oil, which can be used to combat varroa.
- Cultural techniques: Various cultural techniques, such as the use of drone cell trapping, can also be used to reduce the varroa population.
- Stop Varroa Treatment: The Stop Varroa treatment is the only one to eliminate 100% of varroa. It can also be used in organic beekeeping. Stop Varroa is safe for bees and does not contaminate your honey.
What to do if you suspect varroa infestation?
If you suspect varroa infestation, it is important to contact an experienced beekeeper or animal health service for advice and assistance.
How to prevent varroa infestation?
There are several measures you can take to prevent varroa infestation, including:
- Buy healthy and certified varroa-free bee colonies.
- Regularly inspect your colonies for early signs of infestation.
- Implement strict hygiene measures in your apiary.
- Get trained in varroa control techniques.
Varroa is a serious threat to European beekeeping.
By taking necessary measures to combat this parasite, beekeepers can protect their colonies and contribute to the preservation of bees.
Feel free to contact your local association for more information on varroa and how to combat it.