THRESHOLD YARDSTICK
The following are methods to monitor mite levels and disease resistance. Note that threshold levels may vary by geographic location. Check with your local Bee Association or Research Lab for specific information for your area.
VARROA MITE
Testing Method:Wash / Strain
Reference: ABJ Aug 2000 Pg. 659 Erickson
Below 5% - Resistant (w/o treatment)
Above 5% - Treatment required in late summer
Reference: ABJ Jan 2008 Pg. 51 R.Danka;J Harris;K Ward; R Ward
Below 5% - Resistant (w/o treatment)
Above 5% - Treatment required in late summer
Reference: ABJ Jan 2008 Pg. 51 R.Danka;J Harris;K Ward; R Ward
Varroa mite levels reach their peak in the fall of the year.
TRACHEAL MITE
Testing Method:Professional Laboratory Analysis
Below 20% - Resistant (w/o treatment)
Above 20% - Treatment required
Tracheal mite levels reach their peak in the winter and spring of the year.
Above 20% - Treatment required
Tracheal mite levels reach their peak in the winter and spring of the year.
HYGIENIC BEHAVIOR
Testing Method:
1. Pin Prick (24 Hours)
Reference: Apidologie 30: (1999) Pg 367-374 Gramacho K, et al.
2. Freeze Brood (48 Hours)
Reference: Bee Culture May 1998 pg 23 Spivak
Above 90% removal of dead brood = Hygienic Behavior
Hygienic Behavior can be further improved in a selected population by decreasing the standard removal time from 48 hours to 24 hours, with a minimum of 90% of the dead brood removed.
Reference: Apidologie 30: (1999) Pg 367-374 Gramacho K, et al.
2. Freeze Brood (48 Hours)
Reference: Bee Culture May 1998 pg 23 Spivak
Above 90% removal of dead brood = Hygienic Behavior
Hygienic Behavior can be further improved in a selected population by decreasing the standard removal time from 48 hours to 24 hours, with a minimum of 90% of the dead brood removed.
NOSEMA
Testing Method:Professional Laboratory Analysis
Reference:: Bee Culture Nov 1999 Pg 34 Bach
Below: 4,000 spores/bee -- Not detectable
Above : 1,000,000 spores/bee - Treatment required
Nosema levels reach their peak in the spring of the year.
Below: 4,000 spores/bee -- Not detectable
Above : 1,000,000 spores/bee - Treatment required
Nosema levels reach their peak in the spring of the year.
