Abstract
Olfaction is a major sense in Varroa destructor. In natural conditions, it is known that this honey bee parasite relies on kairomones to detect its host or to reproduce. Yet, in artificial conditions, the parasite is able to feed and survive for a few days even though most honey bee pheromones are lacking. Other key cues are thus probably involved in V. destructor perception of its close environment. Here, we used several artificial feeding designs to explore the feeding behaviour of the parasite when it is deprived of olfactory cues. We found that V. destructor is still able to feed only guided by physical cues. The detection of the food source seems to be shape-related as a 3D membrane triggers arrestment and exploration more than a 2D membrane. The tactile sense of V. destructor could thus be essential to detect a feeding site, although further studies are needed to assess the importance of this sense combined with olfaction in natural conditions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
