What is the major mite pest of the honey bee?

Varroa mites are recognized as the major mite pest of honey bees, primarily due to their severe impact on bee health and colony viability. These ectoparasitic mites attach themselves to adult bees and developing brood (larvae and pupae), feeding on their bodily fluids. This feeding not only weakens the individual bees but also facilitates the transmission of viruses, which can lead to significant population declines within colonies.

The Varroa mite has been a leading cause of colony losses worldwide since its introduction to honey bee populations. Its ability to rapidly reproduce and spread among colonies, combined with the challenges in effectively managing their populations, makes it a critical focus for beekeepers. Effective control measures are essential for the health of honey bee colonies, and understanding the role of Varroa mites is fundamental to sustainable beekeeping practices.

In contrast, while other pests such as wax moths and small hive beetles have the potential to harm bee colonies, their impact is not as widespread or damaging as that of Varroa mites. Wax moths typically infest weak or stressed colonies, while small hive beetles pose a risk but do not directly feed on bees themselves. Dermatobia hominis, also known as the human botfly, is not relevant in the