• Researchers from the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and the University of California, Davis, are helping beekeepers protect their colonies from destructive varroa mites. • In a new study, the researchers investigate the effectiveness of combining a widely used mite-killing pesticide with an agent that inhibits the mites’ ability to tolerate the pesticide.
Article Summaries:
- USDA Agricultural Research Service scientists and researchers at UC Davis have tested a new strategy to protect honeybee colonies from the destructive varroa mite. The study evaluated whether combining a common mite‑killing pesticide with a compound that blocks the mites’ tolerance mechanisms can improve control. Early results suggest the dual‑agent approach enhances pesticide efficacy and may slow the development of resistance, offering beekeepers a more reliable tool to keep mite populations in check and support colony health.
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