Observations on concurrent parasitism by mites on four honeybee species in India

Authors

  • D.P. Abrol Section of Entomology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Regional Agricultural Research Station, R.S. Pura Jammu -181 102, Jammu and Kashmir, India
  • S.K. Kakroo Section of Entomology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Regional Agricultural Research Station, R.S. Pura Jammu -181 102, Jammu and Kashmir, India

Keywords:

Honeybee species, Mite pests, Honey production, Pollination

Abstract

Four honeybee species viz. Apis cerana indica F., A. mellifera L., A. dorsata F., and A. florea F. were examined for the presence of mites during a study conducted between 1991 and 1992. The investigation revealed the presence of Varroa jacobsoni Oudemans in A. cerana indica F. colonies. Tropilaelaps clareae Delfinado & Baker was found associated with A. mellifera, A. cerana indica, and A. dorsata colonies whereas Euvarroa sinhai Delfinado. & Baker occurred with A. florea only. The maximum infestation of mites was observed during March to May and August to September in all the honeybee species. Phoretic mites Neocypholaelaps indica Evans and stored product mites Tyrophagus longior (Gervais), Caloglyphus indica, and hypoi were also found in hives. Population dynamics of mites varied during different seasons as well as from one bee species to another. The study further revealed that bee mite interactions were species-specific.

Downloads

Issue

Volume 74 Number 2

Section

Research Papers