On-farm Evaluation and Demonstration of Small Hive Beetle (<i><i>Aethina tumida</i></i>) Trapping Technology

Abstract

On-farm Evaluation and demonstration of small hive beetle (Aethina tumida) trapping technology was conducted in the 2018/2019 in West Shoa zone, Bako Tibe district to evaluate the effectiveness of the trap, to minimize the absconded of honey bees and produce quality, honey. One representative PA was selected based on honey production potential and accessibility for field monitoring and visit. Beneficiary farmers were selected based on the criteria and objective of the AGP II (Agricultural Growth Program II,) and the willingness of farmers to participate in the demonstration. The FREG members include 20 beekeepers (5female and 15 men.) The training was given for beekeepers, Woreda experts, and DAs.20 Langstroth hives (10 treatments and 10 control colonies) were established at one apiary site. Pieces of corrugated cardboard (45 cm × 45 cm), with one surface peeled to expose the ridges, were placed on the bottom board of each beehive with the ridged side down for treatment group hive. Small hive beetle adults and larvae were trapped counted, removed, and burned. Honey bee colonies from the treatment group were not absconded whereas the control group honey bee colonies were more absconded. The honey yields were obtained from the treatment group 16Kg/hive/season and 7Kg/hive/season from the control group. The number of small hive beetle adults and larvae counted from the cardboard was decreased through data collection season. The FREG members appreciated the technology; therefore, further scaling up of this technology should be conducted in different areas of beekeeping.