Parasitic mite, Varroa species (Parasitiformes: Varroidae) infesting the colonies of African honeybees, Apis mellifera scutellata (Hymenoptera: Apididae) in Tanzania

Abstract

Assessment of parasitic mites (Varroa spp) infesting the colonies of African honeybees (Apis mellifera scutellata) was conducted in 25 districts of Tanzania mainland from August, 2010 - May, 2012. The research investigated the occurrence, prevalence and examined diagnostic features of Varroa mite’s infestation in colonies. Purposive sampling was used in each district; three apiaries and hives were randomly selected for inspection. Interviews, direct observation and experimental set up were the main data collection techniques used to gather the information. The results revealed the presence of Varroa mites in honeybee in 23 (92%) out of 25 studied districts. Out of 175 inspected honeybee colonies, 85 (48%) were found infected with mites. Infestation levels showed significant relationship with changing altitudes, being highest (219 mite count) at altitudes ranging between 1201 and 1500 m a.s.l. The study showed that bee colonies were performing well probably that the African honeybees is adaptive and co-exist with the mites. Authorities are advised to come up with an urgent monitoring programme to determine mite infestation levels and its effects to honeybee colonies in the managed and feral colonies.