SMALL HIVE
BEETLE
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Small hive beetles (Aethina tumida) are a pest that can cause significant damage to honeybee colonies. They are originally from sub-Saharan Africa, but have been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Australia. Small hive beetles primarily attack weak or stressed colonies, and can quickly multiply and cause widespread damage. In this article, we'll discuss the symptoms, treatments, prevention, and cures for small hive beetle infestations.
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Symptoms: The symptoms of a small hive beetle infestation can be subtle at first, but can quickly become severe. Some of the signs of a small hive beetle infestation include:
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Adult beetles: Adult small hive beetles are about 1/4 inch long and are dark brown or black. They are easily identifiable by their small size and distinctive shape.
Larvae: Small hive beetle larvae are white and grub-like, and can be found in the honeycomb, pollen, and brood cells. They feed on the honey, pollen, and brood, and can quickly cause widespread damage.
Foul odour: Small hive beetle infestations can cause a foul odor in the hive, due to the beetles' feces and the fermentation of the honey.
Damage to comb: Small hive beetles can tunnel through the honeycomb, causing damage to the comb and making it difficult for bees to store honey.
Weakened colony: Small hive beetles can weaken colonies by causing stress and by consuming large amounts of honey and pollen.
Treatments: There are several treatments that can be used to control small hive beetle infestations. Some of the most effective treatments include:
Traps: There are several types of small hive beetle traps available, including oil traps and bait traps. Traps can be placed in the hive to catch and kill adult beetles.
Chemical treatments: Chemical treatments, such as coumaphos or permethrin, can be used to kill small hive beetles. However, these treatments should be used with caution, as they can also harm bees.
Diatomaceous earth: Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that can be used to control small hive beetles. It works by drying out the beetles and causing them to die.
Screened bottom boards: Screened bottom boards can be used to prevent small hive beetles from entering the hive. The screens allow for ventilation, but are too small for the beetles to enter.
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Using beetle traps: There are several types of traps that can be used to capture and remove small hive beetles from a hive.
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Quarantining new bees: If introducing new bees to a hive, it is important to quarantine them first to prevent the introduction of small hive beetles or other pests.
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Prevention: Preventing small hive beetle infestations is the best way to protect honeybee colonies. Here are some prevention measures that can be taken:
Maintain strong colonies: Small hive beetles are more likely to attack weak or stressed colonies. Keeping colonies healthy and strong can help prevent infestations.
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Keep hives clean: Regularly cleaning hives and removing old comb can help prevent small hive beetle infestations.
Reduce entrances: Small hive beetles can enter the hive through small openings. Reducing the size of the hive entrance can help prevent infestations.
Monitor regularly: Regularly monitoring hives for signs of small hive beetles can help prevent infestations from getting out of control.
Cures: There is no cure for small hive beetle infestations, but there are ways to manage them. The most effective way to manage small hive beetles is through prevention and treatment. By maintaining strong, healthy colonies and using effective treatments, small hive beetle infestations can be controlled.
Small Hive Beetles can cause significant damage to honeybee colonies if left untreated. Detecting the infestation early and taking the appropriate measures to control and prevent the infestation can help maintain healthy colonies. It is important to note that prevention measures are often more effective than treatments, so good hive management practices are essential.