Varroa mites are the most destructive parasite affecting honey bee colonies worldwide. In this Bee Science Short, Dr. Dewey Caron explains how Varroa destructor reproduces, spreads within colonies, and why understanding the mite's biology is essential for modern beekeeping.

Female Varroa mites enter brood cells shortly before they are capped and reproduce alongside the developing bee. Inside the sealed cell, mites feed on the developing bee and produce offspring that emerge with the young adult bee. Because the mite's reproductive cycle is closely tied to brood production, populations can increase rapidly during the active season.

Beyond direct feeding damage, Varroa mites also spread viruses that weaken colonies and shorten the lifespan of worker bees. Dewey explains why unchecked mite populations can quickly overwhelm a colony if they are not monitored and managed.

For beekeepers, the key is awareness. Regular monitoring allows beekeepers to track mite levels and respond before populations reach damaging levels. Understanding the biology of Varroa helps beekeepers make informed decisions about management strategies and colony health.

This episode is part of the Bee Science with Dewey series, where Dr. Caron shares practical explanations of honey bee biology to help beekeepers better understand what is happening inside their colonies.

Links and references mentioned in this episode:

• Lundin, Ola. Et. al. 2021. Integrated pest and pollinator management – expanding the concept. Frontiers Ecol & Environ. https://doi.org/10.1002/fee.2325

• Caron, Dewey and review committee. Tools for Varroa Management. Honey Bee Health Coalition https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/  (you want to get the 9th edition (available soon)

• Bruckner, Selina, et.al. 2025. Let's not sugar coat it: the powdered sugar shake is Published online: https://doi.org/10.1080/00218839.2025.2550855

• Caron, D.M. and L. J. Connor. 2025. Honey bee Biology and Beekeeping. Wicwas Press. 

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