Mechanisms of Insecticide Resistance in Field Populations of the Varroa Mite (Acari: Mesostigmata: Varroidae) in Florida

Abstract

The varroa mite (Acari: Mesostigmata: Varroidae) has developed resistance to the 2 major miticides (fluvalinate and coumaphos) registered for control of this invasive pest of bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae) in the United States. Comparative studies on miticide toxicity with and without the synergists piperonyl butoxide and formamidine indicated that enhanced metabolism by mixed-function oxidases and altered target site were the major mechanisms of resistance to organophosphorus and pyrethroid insecticides in varroa mite populations of northern Florida.