Incidence rate of varroaris in honey bee colonies of Eastern Azarbaijan province, Northwestern Iran

Abstract

The aim of this study is to come to a conclusion on the seasonal existence of varroaris in the apiaries of Eastern Azerbaijan Province, Northwestern Iran and comparing the spread rate of varroaris in this region with other regions (reported in similar studies). Among 942 apiaries under study (located in 10 regions in the province) in one year, 217 apiaries were infected by varroaris. Varroaris was witnessed to be found in its lowest rate in June (7.72%) and its peak was recorded to be in March (44%). Parasitic infection in the apiaries in the area in the months of honey production, during summer and fall demonstrated an increasing procedure in a way that in the months: July, August, September and October, the percentage of infected apiaries was, respectively 9.76, 26.82, 32.92 and 40%. In January, February and March the peak of infection witnessed was, respectively: 33.33, 34.66 and 44%. It is proposed that the rate of varroaris infection is higher in cold regions such as Eastern Azarbaijan Province comparing to warm climates and its incidence and spread in the cold seasons (fall and winter) is more than warm and hot seasons (spring and summer). © 2009 Academic Journals Inc.