Author(s): MENEZES, C.

Summary: The unfavorable interactions between mites and bees have cast a shadow on this topic, and not without reason. The primary challenge confronting global apiculture stems from Varroa destructor, a mite that not only directly harms parasitized bees but also serves as a vector for numerous diseases. In stingless bees there have been reports of severe damage inflicted by mites, like Pyemotes tritici, which can quickly destroy entire colonies, given its rapid proliferation and dispersal capabilities. However, a simple inspection of a stingless bee colony reveals a surprising abundance and diversity of mites coexisting harmoniously with their hosts. These relationships have been studied for some time, revealing beneficial interactions with the bees. Recent studies have unveiled that these associations are far more significant than initially perceived. There is great potential for valuable discoveries in this area, with noteworthy implications for improving our understanding of fundamental bee biology, as well as for bee conservation and management.

Publication year: 2024

Types of publication: Abstract in annals or event proceedings

Unit: Embrapa Environment

Keywords: Mites, Stingless bees