Neumann, P., Hoffmann, D., Pettis, J.S. 2008. Potential host shift of
the small hive beetle (Aethina tumida Murray) to bumblebee colonies
(Bombus impatiens Cresson). Insectes Sociaux. 55:153-162.

Interpretive Summary:

> Honey bee colonies are infested by a wide variety of pests and diseases. One such pest is the small hive beetle which was recently introduced into the U.S. from Africa. Because this beetle feeds on pollen and honey it has the potential to infest other types of bee colonies such as bumblebees. We found that small hive beetles are as attracted to bumblebee colonies as they are to honey bee colonies but that bumblebees do exhibit some behaviors that will help defend against beetles invading their hives. Thus small hive beetles could infest and damage bumblebee colonies in nature. Field surveys are necessary to evaluate the actual infestation status of wild social bee colonies.

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