Methods for Controlling Varroa destructor in Organic Beekeeping

Abstract

Organic beekeeping is a controlled and certified form of beekeeping in which bees collect nectar, pollen, water, and propolis from nature and transform them into various bee products, with every stage of production, from production to consumption, being subject to control and certification (Cengiz, Genç, & Dodoloğlu, 2010). There are various diseases and pests affecting the honey bee (Apis mellifera), which is a social insect species. It has been observed that, if these diseases and pests are not controlled, colony productivity decreases and colonies may eventually collapse (Burğut, Kumova, Eldeniz, & Burğut, 2011). Varroa destructor, known as one of the most important parasites of honey bees worldwide and in Türkiye, feeds on the hemolymph of honey bees, causing colonies to weaken and eventually collapse within a few years. Today, various methods are available for the detection of Varroa destructor. Among the principal diagnostic methods are shaking adult honey bees in liquids such as ether, alcohol, hot water, detergent, or gasoline; treating honey bees with powdered sugar; and examining drone brood cells for the presence of the parasite (Tutkun, 2016). Chemical, genetic, and locally adapted control methods are used to combat honey bee diseases and parasites. In particular, chemical methods are widely used for the control of Varroa destructor and are frequently preferred and applied by beekeepers. However, the intensive use of chemicals has resulted in the development of resistance in pests and pathogens, gradually reducing the effectiveness of the treatments used for control (Burğut et al., 2011). Various organic treatments are used for the control of Varroa destructor. Research has increasingly focused on organic acids and essential oils derived from aromatic plants because they are considered safer in terms of residues. In many countries, particular attention has been given to the effects of essential oils, and extracts or dried leaves of plants such as thyme (Thymus spp.), juniper tar, pine (Pinus spp.), tobacco (Nicotiana spp.), and pyrethrum (Pyrethrum spp.) have been used at different doses and in various combinations to control the varroa mite (Tutkun, 2016). Thus, the use of such natural products can help reduce the risk of pesticide residues in honey while providing beekeepers engaged in organic production with alternative, naturally derived methods for controlling Varroa destructor (Şahinler & Alapala, 2017).