Varroa mite

Definition

An external parasitic mite of the genus Varroa, specifically Varroa destructor, that infests honey bee colonies and is among the most destructive pests of managed and feral Apis worldwide. The mite reproduces inside brood cells, feeding on developing larvae and adult fat body tissue while vectoring pathogens such as Deformed Wing Virus. Heavy infestations typically cause colony collapse within 2–4 years without intervention.

Etymology

From the genus name Varroa, honoring Marcus Terentius Varro, Roman scholar who wrote on beekeeping.

Example

A Varroa mite enters a honey bee hive by phoresy on a foraging worker, then enters a brood cell to lay eggs on a larva; emerging mites weaken the bee and transmit Deformed Wing Virus, leading to colony death.

Synonyms

• Varroa destructor

Related Terms

• Acari
• Apis mellifera
• Apis cerana
• ectoparasite
• Deformed Wing Virus
• Colony Collapse Disorder
• phoresy
• propolis

Usage Notes

Varroa jacobsoni, once considered conspecific, is now recognized as a separate species that primarily parasitizes Apis cerana; V. destructor is the species responsible for global honey bee losses. The term is sometimes used loosely for either species. Management requires integrated pest management including chemical treatment, brood interruption, and resistant bee stock.