Phenotypic and Genetic Resistance in Varroa Mites and Honey Bees

Document Type : Scientific-Extensional Article

Authors

1 M.Sc. Student of Animal and Poultry Breeding & Genetics, Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Alborz, Iran

2 Professor of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Alborz, Iran

3 Associate Professor of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Alborz, Iran

4 Ph.D. Student of Animal and Poultry Breeding & Genetics, Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Alborz, Iran

Abstract

Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are crucial pollinators in the agricultural ecosystem, known for their extensive genetic diversity across the globe. In a colony, they are categorized into three groups: worker bees, queens, and drones. The Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) is a significant challenge facing honey bees. This parasite not only transmits viruses but also diminishes the population and ability of bees to fly. Furthermore, bees infected by Varroa experience various physiological and morphological issues. One of the primary concerns in modern beekeeping is the Varroa mite's resistance to chemical drugs, which has developed due to the frequent and often improper use of chemical drugs for Varroa mite control. This resistance has led to diminished treatment effectiveness and increased costs for beekeepers. Several approaches can be employed to manage Varroa mites, including cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods. Cultural approaches involve using Varroa-resistant bee strains and interrupting bee reproduction cycles. Mechanical methods include implementing mesh floorboards and removing male cells. Chemical methods encompass the use of formic acid and oxalic acid as soft chemicals, while Amitraz serves as a hard chemical option. Currently, Selective breeding is being explored as a viable solution for controlling Varroa mites. This approach focuses on selecting bees that exhibit resistance traits, such as non-reproduction of mites, Varroa-sensitive hygiene, Uncapping-recapping cells, hygienic behavior towards dead brood, post-capping stage duration, and grooming behavior. The accuracy of measuring these traits can be influenced by various factors, including the amount of brood produced, pests and pathogens, types of viruses transmitted, and environmental factors. In Iran, researchers have made attempts to enhance the economic traits of local honey bee breeds. However, there has been no selection made specifically for resistance to pests and diseases, including the Varroa mite.

Keywords

References

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Professional Journal of Domestic
Volume 24, Issue 4 - Serial Number 31
In Progress
March 2025
Pages 29-36

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