Effects of natural treatments on the varroa mite infestation levels and overall health of honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies.

ABSTRACT: The survival of the honey bee (Apis mellifera), which has a crucial role in pollination and ecosystem maintenance, is threatened by many pathogens, including parasites, bacteria, fungi and viruses. The ectoparasite Varroa destructor is considered the major cause of the worldwide decline in honey bee colony health. Although several synthetic acaricides are available to control Varroa infestations, resistant mites and side effects on bees have been documented. The development of natural alternatives for mite control is therefore encouraged. The study aims at exploring the effects of cinnamon and oregano essential oils (EOs) and of a mixed fruit cocktail juice on mite infestation levels and bee colony health. A multi-method study including hive inspection, mite count, molecular detection of f

SUBMITTER: Narciso L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11075888 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature