The presence of small hive beetles represents a significant challenge for apiculture. These pests can infest honeybee colonies, leading to damage of honeycombs, fermentation of honey, and, in severe cases, colony collapse. Effective management strategies are crucial to maintain healthy and productive bee populations.
Addressing infestations benefits the health of bee colonies, which are essential for pollination and the broader ecosystem. Historically, various methods, from cultural practices to chemical treatments, have been employed with varying degrees of success. Understanding the beetle’s life cycle and behavior is fundamental to implementing successful control measures.
