Measures to protect bee health against varroosis in Montenegro

Abstract

Varroosis is a disease of bees and their brood caused by Varroa destructor, an ectoparasitic mite (acarine). This parasite is present throughout the year in bee colonies feeding on hemolymph from adult bees, larvae and pupae. Varroosis is also present in the beekeeping of Montenegro. Measures to prevent varroosis include beekeeping on favorable terrains, early detection of diseases, control of newly procured colonies, application of the principles of good beekeeping practice, control of treatment efficiency etc. Diagnostic examination for varroosis is carried out once a year - until the end of March in all bee colonies. For mite control, only registered products should be used. In Montenegro, natural preparations are registered - Apiguard (based on thymol) and Api Life Var (based on thymol, eucalyptus oil, camphor and L-menthol). Varroa quickly becomes resistant to synthetic chemical preparations based on compounds, such as amitraz, coumaphos, synthetic pyrethroids - fluvalinate and flumethrin. In addition to gaining resistance, there is a great danger of depositing residues in bee products. Such bee products are a source of contamination for humans through the consumption of bee products (honey, royal jelly, propolis, etc.) and bee wax is a source of contamination through cosmetic products that contain it. Therefore, these synthetic preparations should not be used for the treatment of bee colonies against varroa.