Varroa Mites

Close up of Varroa mite infesting a honeybee larvae

Varroa Mite Classification Class: Arachnida Order: Mesostigmata Family: Varroidae Genus: Varroa Species: Varroa destructor Varroa mites, also known as Varroa destructor, are parasites that feed on honeybees, including Apis cerana and Apis mellifera.  Varroa destructor (Varroa mite) is a species belonging to the genus Varroa in the family Varroidae. They belong to the order Mesostigmata, […]

Wax Moths

Close up of a lesser wax moth on the ground

Wax Moth Classification Class: Insecta Order: Lepidoptera Family: Pyralidae Genus: Galleria or Achoria Species: Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella The wax moth is a parasite of honey bees, laying eggs inside the cracks of their hives and eating the bees’ homes and food stores. A wax moth consumes the honeycomb of honey bee hives, including […]

Bee Diseases

bee diseases varroa brood

Brood infected by wax moths Bees are susceptible to illness and diseases like any other living thing. However, one sick bee can cause irreversible damage to a colony as the disease spreads. Additionally, parasites target certain bees and shorten their lifespans.  Diseases are a troubling problem for beekeepers trying to maintain healthy hives, but there […]