Parasitic Mites of Honey Bees (Apis Spp.): A Detailed Review of Varroa destructor in Parasitism, Pathogen Transmission and its Management

Abstract

The parasitic mite Varroa destructor is the primary factor contributing to global honeybee (Apis mellifera) colony losses, posing a sustainable challenge to apiculture and pollination services. Its intricate life cycle adaptive reproductive strategies, and advanced sensory mechanisms have facilitated its emergence as the most destructive honeybee parasite. V. destructor uses highly specialized feeding strategies that extract essential nutrients from their hosts and introduce various pathogens, causing honeybee health problems. The mite functions as a viral vector, particularly in the case of the transmission and proliferation of deformed wing virus (DWV), which has resulted in significant colony weakening and collapse. V. destructor has emerged as the most destructive ectoparasite of honeybees, compromising both individual bee health and overall colony resilience. Its success is attributed not only to its direct feeding behavior and viral vectoring ability, but also to advanced chemical communication, immune suppression, and behavioral adaptations. Synergistic mite-pathogen interactions highlight the need for effective control measures. Current control approaches include advanced detection systems in the form of Var-Gor, focused neural and viral pathway inhibitions, and other control measures such as essential oils. The development of synergistic management strategies involving biotechnology, genetic resistance, and sustainable treatment alternatives, is critical to control V. destructor infestations. A deeper understanding of the evolutionary arms race between honeybees and V. destructors will be crucial to the development of long-term, sustainable control strategies that safeguard bee populations and preserve pollination services, which are vital to world agriculture. This review aims to synthesize current understanding of V. destructor biology, its interactions with honeybee host (A. mellifera and A. cerana), and the associated microbial and viral pathogens. We also explore recent developments in detection, population dynamics, and sustainable management strategies including botanicals, essential oils, and organic acids. By integrating ecological, physiological, and molecular perspectives, this review highlights the need for multidisciplinary approaches to effectively manage Varroa and mitigate its impact on global apiculture.