Parasitic Mites on Honeybees

Abstract

Honeybee, Apis mellifera which is native to Europe and Africa, has been transported from all areas where men live. Production of many agricultural crops is dependent on bees for their pollination. More than 100 species of mites have been reported with honeybees. Out of different mite species associated with honeybees, only Acarapis woodi, Tropilaelaps clareae, Varroa jacobsoni and Varroa destructor are economic pests of honeybees, and their infestation may lead to destruction of the beekeeping industry in many cases. Morphology, development, symptoms and diagnosis and dispersal of these parasitic species along with measures to manage them in a befitting way are discussed. Methods to detect these mites and check their dispersal to new colonies are discussed. Control measures include manipulative methods, use of soft chemicals and acaricides and use of various non-chemical treatments against parasitic mites. Varroa destructor described as a separate species seems to be most important among mite pests responsible for widespread colony losses of Western honeybee. Details about its morphology, life history, economic importance, measures to manage them on bee colonies and steps to check their entry into uninvaded areas are discussed.