When looking for an understanding of sampling, tests, and their
interpretation, the authoritative source is the Coloss Beebook.  The section
on varroa is:

http://www.coloss.org/beebook/II/varroa/4

 

Sections 4.2.3.1.1 "Sampling" and 4.2.3.3 ":Evaluation of total mite
population size in the colony" would be of interest. 

 

The consensus of virtually the entire research community is distilled into
this publication, so if better methods are found, the Beebook will be
updated, which is why the online version your best bet.

 

As a rule, I am generally dubious of any beekeeper waving around any mite
count other than a 3-day passive drop count, in the context of being
compared to the prior 3-day passive mite drop count from 2 weeks ago.  A
single measurement is useless in terms of varroa control, what matters is
the slope of the curve on the graph of readings for the hive.  When the
population of varroa starts to ramp up, the slope of the curve will seem to
"go exponential".  Yes, this means sliding cards under hives often - "The
Price of Honey is Eternal Vigilance."

 

Other segments of agriculture can sample pests, and calculate a pest/acre
rate, as they know how many acres they have.  Beekeepers have a tougher
problem, and must talk about "mites per bee" without really being able to do
more than estimate at the actual adult bee population.  "Varroa Thresholds
are Bunk".

 

 


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