Evaluation of alternatives for controlling Varroa destructor in honeybees (Apis mellifera)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17177390Keywords:
apis mellifera, formic acid, lithium chloride , oxalic acid, varroa mitesAbstract
Introduction: Beekeeping is important for honey production and crop pollination. However, it faces several problems related to hive health, such as infestation by Varroa destructor, a mite that seriously affects the health of bees. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of three chemical alternatives (formic acid 65 %, oxalic acid 10 %, and lithium chloride 10 %) in controlling Varroa destructor and their impact on the health of honeybees (Apis mellifera). Method: The study took place at the ESPOCH "Tunshi" Experimental Station for 45 days. Sixteen Langstroth hives were used, with four experimental groups (control and three treatments). A preliminary diagnosis was performed to assess the level of varroa infestation, and 16 hives with similar levels of varroa were selected. The variables were measured: Number of fallen mites, infestation percentage, treatment efficacy, hive weight, and mortality adult and brood bees were assessed. Analysis of variance and separation of means using Tukey's test (P < 0.01) and (P < 0.05) were performed. Results: 10 % lithium chloride was most effective (93.14 %) in reducing Varroa destructor, followed by formic acid (72.86 %) and oxalic acid (60.07 %). Treatment with lithium chloride showed the lowest mortality of adult and brood bees without significantly affecting hive weight. Conclusion: 10 % lithium chloride is a promising alternative for Varroa destructor control, with high efficacy and low impact on bee health.
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