Primary Treatments and Loss Rates

This section presents data on the effectiveness of various primary treatments for controlling varroa mites and their correlation with colony loss rates. Primary treatments refer to the main methods beekeepers use to manage mites, typically applied at scheduled intervals throughout the year.

Overview of Primary Treatments:

• Oxalic Acid Vaporization: One of the most effective treatments when applied correctly, especially during broodless periods. Studies show it can achieve 90-95% mite reduction in properly treated colonies.
• Formic Acid: Kills mites under capped brood and is effective in warm temperatures but can be harsh on weak colonies. Loss rates tend to be lower when application is carefully managed.
• Apivar (Amitraz): A synthetic miticide with high efficacy, but resistance concerns have been reported. Loss rates increase when used improperly or in areas with resistance.
• Thymol-Based Treatments (Apiguard, Apilife Var): Effective but temperature-sensitive. Studies indicate lower loss rates when used in moderate climates.
• Drone Brood Removal & Brood Breaks: Non-chemical methods requiring precise timing. Often used alongside other treatments for best results.

Research suggests that combining multiple treatment strategies throughout the year leads to significantly lower colony loss rates. Beekeepers relying solely on one treatment type may see higher losses, particularly if mites develop resistance or environmental conditions affect treatment efficacy.

Secondary Treatments and Loss Rates

Secondary treatments are supplementary mite control methods used alongside a beekeeper’s primary treatment plan. These may include additional organic acids, essential oils, or mechanical interventions such as drone trapping.

Common Secondary Treatments:

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: Encourages grooming behavior but is not sufficient as a standalone method.
• Essential Oils (Thymol, Wintergreen, Tea Tree): Used in combination with other treatments to improve mite control.
• Screened Bottom Boards: Can help reduce mite populations but are not a replacement for chemical treatments.
• Queen Caging or Induced Brood Breaks: Can lower mite levels but requires significant hive management skills.
• Combination of Oxalic Acid and Formic Acid: Recent studies show strategic seasonal use of both leads to lower loss rates.

Data indicates that **beekeepers using secondary treatments alongside a primary treatment** generally experience lower loss rates than those relying on a single method. However, over-reliance on weaker secondary treatments without a strong primary treatment often results in higher losses.

Contribute to the Research!

These findings are based on ongoing beekeeper reports and research studies. The more data we collect, the more accurate and valuable our insights become. Help improve this research by submitting your beekeeping treatment data here!