Comparative evaluation of sticky paper and hive debris as sampling methods for population assessment of Varroa destructor in Apis mellifera colonies

Abstract

In the present investigation, two sampling methods for V. destructor; hive debris and sticky paper method was compared year around in A. mellifera colonies to know the viable method. Between the two methods, sticky paper method was found significantly better (CD = 0.11; p = 0.05). More mitefall was recorded in sticky paper method (17.58 mites/hive) than in hive debris sampling (11.41 mites/hive). Fortnightly data analysis showed two peaks of Varroa; one in second fortnight of May and other in first fortnight of July in both sampling methods. Maximum number of mites (63.27 mites/hive) was recorded in second fortnight of May in both sampling methods which was significantly higher than the mites recorded at other observation periods (CD = 0.38; p = 0.05).