>
> I've just sampled my hives for Varroa, finding 2 or fewer mites per 100
> bees.  While me feel for this issue is that this level is too low to
> treat, I don't have any data or expert opinion to base my decision on.
> The April '92 issue of Gleanings suggests that 30+ indicates a hive in
> danger of collapse, but doesn't give much help at lower levels.
>
> How about it, folks?  What infestation level indicates that it is time
> for the Apistan?
>
> Greg Kendall
> [log in to unmask]
>
        This is a very good question.  I'm not sure anyone has ever done
a true threshold study for Varroa.  It  may also be different for
different climates.
        I don't know what it would be in North Carolina, but most
"experts" would probably agree that two is too few.  It would also make
a difference which method of detection you used.  Ether-roll is many
times less sensitive than Apistan/sticky boards.  I am guessing you used
the ether roll.
        Without consulting the Gleanings article, I don't remember the
background, but I think it would valuable to develop some "ballpark"
number so beekeepers don't treat with very low numbers of mites.  The
threshold will be difficult to determine because of so many variables in
the bees and climate.
        Perhaps others with more experience will contribute some info?
 
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| Stephen Bambara    NCSU-Entomology, Box 7626, Raleigh NC 27695-7626   |
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