How long can Varroa destructor survive on its host Apis mellifera?

Abstract

Varroa destructor is the major ectoparasite of honey bees causing extensive colony losses worldwide. Despite the importance of this threat to honey bees some crucial aspects of the mite’s biology are still poorly known, including the longevity of the parasite on the different developmental stages of its host. This study aimed at determining, under standard conditions, the lifespan of V. destructor on the larvae, pupae, and adults of the honey bee. In our study, V. destructor survival varied depending on the host life stage, with the longest survival observed on honey bee larvae, where median and maximum survival up to 45 and 100 days were recorded, respectively. A declining survival of V. destructor during the summer season was also noted, possibly linked to deteriorating honey bee health, associated with higher viral infection levels. This study emphasizes the importance of establishing an artificial rearing system to advance research on V. destructor biology and facilitate the development of innovative control strategies.