Acarapis woodi
Pest description Tracheal mites are microscopic parasites that live in the tracheal tubes of adult honey bees. Tracheal mite infestations are difficult to diagnose. To identify them, bees must be dissected under a microscope. Tracheal mites feed on the hemolymph of bees by piercing the wall of trachea. Tracheal mite infected colonies have dwindling bee populations; bees do not cluster well, and often die during the winter. Often, shortened life span of bees and "K" wings have been linked to tracheal mite infestation.
Management-chemical control
- menthol-Treat in fall or early spring. Treatment must end one month before the first nectar flow.
- vegetable oil-1 part vegetable oil plus 2 parts white granulated sugar, formed into a 0.5 lb patty. Place on brood nest top bars during spring and autumn.
Management-alternative control
Genetics-Honey bees vary greatly in their susceptibility to tracheal mites. Certain populations of bees are tolerant of tracheal mites. The use of selection in honey bee colonies for desirable apicultural traits and survival in the presence of tracheal mites can provide a viable alternative to chemical treatments.
For more information:
Honey bee tracheal mites: Gone? But not for Good. P.A. Moore, M. E. Wilson and J. A. Skinner. (bee-health.extension.org) 2015, 2019