| About Beekeeping |
| Stings |
| Swarms |
| Diseases |
| Pests |
| Varroa Mite |
| Tracheal Mite |
| Wax Moth |
| Small Hive Beetle |
| Annual Maintenance |
| Beginner's Corner |
| Beekeeping Gear |
| Extraction |
| Glossary of Terms |
The Tracheal Mite
Tracheal mites travel into bees' tracheas to lay eggs and feed on blood. The mite's parasitic behaviour reduces the bees' oxygen intake, shortening its life span. Tracheal mites will weaken and kill a hive if not treated.
Treatment
Tracheal mites cannot be eliminated, but can be controlled. Check the hives frequently for signs of infestation. Mites reproduce quickly (see management calendar). Mites are treated with Formic Acid and/or Apistan. Instructions for these products are in the package. Read all chemical instructions before treatment is administered.
Detecting Tracheal Mite
To detect tracheal mites, look for bees are walking k-winged -- wings
off to the side rather that on their backs. Tracheal mites are small and
undetectable with the naked eyes. IF you suspect tracheal mites, send
a sample of your bees to your local apicultural ministry for examination.