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Varroa reduces colony vigor by feeding on honey bee hemolymph.
They also vector viruses and facilitate infection by other bee pathogens.
Hemolymph is fluid that fills the body cavities of an invertebrate.
Hemolymph functions like blood for the insect.
That’s what Varroa is and does, That’s what Varroa is and does, now we will discuss how to check now we will discuss how to check
and treat for Varroaand treat for Varroa
Use biotechnical methods or Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to suppress mite
populations if action is necessary when surplus honey is being produced.
What are some examples?
You can also use Varroacides or organic compounds to remove the mites.
So, what exactly is a Varroacide?
Do these methods work, and can we help assure their efficacy?
Let’s have a look at what we know, shall we?
• Varroa mites have exhibited resistance tosome Varroacides in some regions.
• Check with your local cooperative extensionoffice or apiary inspector to find out whichVarroacides are most effective in your area.
• Rotate your treatments to help preventresistance.
• Treat judiciously and follow label instructionscarefully.
True or False:
The stronger the hive is in summer, the less likely it will be heavily infested with Varroa in
the late summer or fall.
False:
A stronger colony in summer give the mites a healthier setting to reproduce in very high numbers. They can overwhelm the colony and cause its demise in a very short time!
True or False:
Your neighbors’ bee Varroa levels matter in your struggle to keep your colonies healthy.
True or False:
Once you have treated with a strong varroacide, leave the colony alone for
several weeks to give the treatment time to work.
Finally, what can a beekeeper do to insure the colony is free of the devastating effects of this
hemolymph-sucking parasite called the Varroa mite?
1. You can check your Varroa treatment of choice for efficacy, which means more
monitoring and careful management.
2. Always, go back and check for reinfestation.
Varroa can multiply rather quickly. Again, this requires constant monitoring and a good management program.
www.ProjectApism.org
Any questions? Want more information?Email [email protected] www.ProjectApism.org