What is hive beetle?

The hive beetle is best understood as a significant pest that can cause considerable damage to honeybee colonies. These beetles invade beehives and can compromise the health of the colony by feeding on the bees' comb, honey, and pollen stores. The adult beetle lays its eggs in the beehive, and once the larvae hatch, they consume the resources within the hive, which can lead to decreased food availability for the bees and overall colony stress. This feeding behavior can result in hive abandonment, poor honey production, and, in severe cases, the collapse of the colony altogether.

Being aware of the hive beetle's impact underscores the importance of regular hive inspections and the implementation of management strategies to minimize their presence and effects within beekeeping operations.