Varroa destructor infestation levels in Africanized honey bee colonies in Brazil from 1977 when first detected to 2020

Abstract

The objectives of this review article were to examine the dynamics of Varroa destructor infestation levels in Africanized honey bees (AHB) in Brazil, since this parasitic mite was first detected in 1977. Data from published research articles, conference proceedings, congress abstracts, and unpublished data obtained from academic researchers was included. Although mite infestations varied significantly along the years, there were no indications that varroa negatively impacted Brazilian apiculture. The mean infestation levels have remained around 4.5 mites per 100 adult bees, with a median of 3.8, during the last 45 years. Adult bee and worker brood infestation rates were found to be similar, though with some geographical variation, including a tendency for higher infestations in the southern regions of the country. Various researchers have suggested that the low infestation levels could be a consequence of the tropical and subtropical climate, honey bee hybridization, grooming and hygienic behaviors, honey bee and mite genetic factors, low nutritional stress, management practices, low migratory stress, and environmental conditions. The lack of a need for chemical treatment of varroa infestations facilitates apiary management and favors organic beekeeping throughout the country. However, though AHB colonies and beekeeping in Brazil thrive without the need for treatment measures, more research should be conducted to better assess the impact that the low varroa mite infestations have on AHB colony health and productivity.