Hungarian on-farm research program for varroa control in organic beekeeping

Tamás Csáki,Dóra Drexler

doi:10.15414/afz.2015.18.si.157-159

Abstract

Varroatosis as the current bane of the beekeepers is causing the biggest economic damage in the apicultural sector. Consistent control of varroatosis should be provided without harmful effects such as the occurrence of toxic residues in the hive products. In the technology of organic beekeeping only natural materials are allowed to be used such as essential oils and organic acids. Since 2013 within the beekeeping on-farm research program, we are collaborating with beekeepers throughout Hungary in comparative trials for testing the efficacy of different types of varroa control treatments and management practices. The trials are set up in market operations. One essential task of the program is to monitor the infestation level systematically with practical mite-counting techniques. Keywords: organic beekeeping, on-farm research, varroa control

Highlights

Varroa mites have a vector role, distributing viruses and weakening bees that become more susceptible to other pathogens as well
The infestation level of the treated colonies stayed under the threshold level throughout the year
In the comparative trials of dribbling mixtures in June and November the combination of Oxalic acid (OA) and CA showed to be more efficient than the combination of OA an FA

Summary

Introduction

Varroa mites have a vector role, distributing viruses and weakening bees that become more susceptible to other pathogens as well. Disorientation, robbing, and frame exchanging may transport mites from one colony to another (Oliver, 2011). There are no colonies without mites in Hungary. The infestation level increases over time in colonies that are untreated or not managed regularly. The continuous build-up of mite population causes slower colony build-up, less honey production, risk of viral epidemic, poor wintering, or at worst, colony collapse. The infestation level should be kept as low as possible for a sustainable production. Any intervention in the colony against mites may cause disturbance and expense, timing and the type of method chosen has great relevance

Methods

Results

Conclusion