I had been told of a simple test for varroa that involved putting a
number of bees in a glass jar, spraying with ether (starting fluid for
diesel engines) and shaking.  If varroa were to be found they would be
seen sticking on the sides of the glass jar.  Is this a valid way for a
definite test to see if your hives have these "critters"? How many bees
do you need to sacrifice?  Also do you use older foraging bees from the
front of the hive or would it be better to use young ones still working
on the brood comb?
 
Brett D. Bannon
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