Bee lice

Braulidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Diptera
Superfamily: Ephydroidea
Family: Braulidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Braulidae: //bɹɔːˈlɪdiˌiː//

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Images

Summary

Braulidae, commonly known as bee lice, are a family of small, wingless flies closely associated with honey bee colonies, primarily impacting queen bees. They have a unique life cycle closely linked to their bee hosts, feeding on honey and secretions without causing direct harm, but can be a nuisance. The family includes two genera, Braula and Megabraula, with Braula coeca being the most widely recognized species.

Physical Characteristics

Small, wingless flies; Braula around 1.6mm, Megabraula around 3mm; reddish-brown color; reduced eyes above antennae; hidden antennae; short robust legs; 5-segmented tarsus; thorax half as long as head; lack of distinct scutellum on metathorax.

Identification Tips

Often mistaken for mites or lice due to their small size and appearance; found on honey bees, especially on queens.

Habitat

Typically found in honey bee colonies, particularly in hives, and occasionally on flowers waiting for bees.

Distribution

Worldwide in Africa, Europe, Australia, North America, and South America; associated with imported queen bees in the United States.

Diet

Adult Braulidae feed on honey and preferred royal jelly; larvae feed on wax and pollen within honey comb.

Life Cycle

Adult Braulidae roam on honey bees and lay eggs on wax cappings; larvae are maggot-like, feeding on wax and pollen; they emerge from puparium using ptilinum.

Reproduction

Adults lay eggs on honey bee wax cappings; dynamics influenced by host honey bee species.

Ecosystem Role

Phoretic, inquiline, and kleptoparasitic relationships with honey bees.

Collecting Methods

Using insect nets on flowering plants when honey bees are present
Direct collection from honey bee hives

Preservation Methods

Ethanol
Freezing

Evolution

The phylogenetic placement of Braulidae has been debated; now placed within superfamily Ephydroidea, sister group to Drosophilidae.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

Often misidentified or confused with other pests like mites or lice due to their appearance and small size.