Analysis of Tunisian Beekeepers' Perceptions in Honey Bee Diseases and Pests Management

Honey bee diseases and pests caused dramatic losses of Tunisian honey bee colonies during the past years. This research aimed to evaluate of beekeepers’ perceptions on bee diseases and pests, and current management practices via interview method of 80 beekeepers in the North of Tunisia. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. Most of the beekeepers reported that Varroosis was the most dangerous pest (97.5%), followed by Foulbrood (19%). Moreover, "moth" butterfly (heteroecious) was the most cited pest (15.2%). Diseases and pest reports were significantly correlated with the educational level of the beekeepers, their training, route to beekeeping (heritage) and number of bee hives. The treatment of diseases was carried out twice a year by most beekeepers (70.7%), once (25.3%) or three times (4%) per year, mainly in winter (62.1%) and autumn (37.9%). The used sanitary products by the respondents were Apivar ® (63.9%), Apistan ® (35.1%), Apiguard ® (35.1%), a mixture of garlic and petrolatum (6.5%), or a mixture of garlic and thyme essential oil (1.3%), accordingly to the disease nature (p<0.05). The treatment type was significantly related to beekeepers' age and education, number of bee hives and the disease nature (p<0.05), whereas significant correlations of numbers and season of treatment applications were found with beekeepers’ age, honey laboratory analysis and disease nature (p<0.05). Finally, 98% of beekeepers have implemented preventive prophylactic measures before honey harvesting based on apiary hygiene control, which confirms that the beekeepers are aware of the importance of sanitation.