Honey Bee Pests

Introduction

Beekeeping is vital in Africa as a source of income and for crop pollination. However, honey bee colonies face threats from various pests (excluding diseases) that can weaken or destroy hives. In Africa – including Kenya – the most economically important bee pests include small hive beetles, large hive beetles, wax moths, and the Varroa mite. These pests cause direct damage by attacking brood, comb, or adult bees, and some also inflict indirect harm by spreading pathogens. This article helps beekeepers identify the major honey bee pests in Africa, explains their impact, and outlines effective control methods, with an emphasis on Kenyan contexts. All information is drawn from scientific and agricultural sources to ensure accuracy and relevance.

Varroa Mite (Varroa destructor)

Identification & Impact

The Varroa destructor mite is a tiny reddish-brown parasite (~1–1.5 mm) often seen on bees or within capped brood cells. It is considered one of the most devastating honey bee pests worldwide. Varroa mites feed on the fat bodies of developing bees and adults, weakening their immune systems and shortening their lifespan. More critically, Varroa acts as a vector for numerous lethal viruses, compounding its damage to colonies. In Kenya and East Africa, Varroa is now widespread (first detected in 2009), yet local African honey bee populations have shown notable resilience (Frazier et al., 2010; Muli et al., 2014).

Control Methods

Effective Varroa management uses an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. Beekeepers should monitor mite levels regularly (e.g. with sugar roll or sticky boards). Cultural and mechanical controls such as drone brood removal, screened bottom boards, and brood breaks can reduce mite populations. If thresholds are exceeded, strategic use of oxalic or formic acid may be needed. However, due to the natural tolerance of African bees, chemical treatments are often unnecessary (Gebremedhn et al., 2019).

Small Hive Beetle (Aethina tumida)

Identification & Impact

SHB is a small, oval beetle (5–7 mm) native to sub-Saharan Africa. In strong African colonies, beetles are usually kept in check, but in weak colonies they can cause substantial damage. SHB larvae feed on pollen, brood, and honey, fermenting the honey into a slimy, foul-smelling mess. The infestation may lead to colony collapse or absconding.

Control Methods

Prevention is key. Maintain strong colonies, avoid comb debris, and promptly remove harvested frames. SHB traps can help, especially when placed in the hive or underneath. Avoid excess space in hives that gives beetles hiding places. These techniques have been effective in African contexts (Roth, 2022).

Wax Moths (Greater and Lesser)

Identification & Impact

The greater (Galleria mellonella) and lesser (Achroia grisella) wax moths attack weak colonies or stored comb. Their larvae tunnel through wax comb, leaving behind silken webbing and damage. While not lethal to healthy hives, they exploit weakened colonies or neglected comb and accelerate collapse.

Control Methods

Keep colonies strong and brood nests compact. Store comb in airtight containers or freeze it to kill larvae and eggs. Discard comb heavily infested. Bright, ventilated storage areas deter moths. Good apiary hygiene prevents serious infestations (Nganso et al., 2025).

Large Hive Beetles (Oplostomus haroldi, O. fuligineus)

 

Identification & Impact

Native African beetles measuring 20–23 mm. These beetles chew on brood, pollen, and honey. In strong colonies, bees propolize and confine them, but weak hives can be devastated. Their life cycle often involves laying eggs in cow dung near hives, increasing risk in livestock-heavy areas (Wambua et al., 2019).

 

Control Methods

Keep colonies populous. Install physical barriers like entrance reducers. Regularly inspect and remove beetles manually. Avoid placing hives near dung accumulation sites.

Ants (Various Species)

Identification & Impact

Ants are opportunistic pests that steal honey and disturb colonies. Most are a nuisance, but aggressive species may force weak colonies to abscond. Colonies with low populations or hive boxes in contact with vegetation are more vulnerable.

Control Methods

Place hives on stands with legs in oil or water moats. Clear grass and branches touching hives. Grease legs or use sticky barriers. Baits may be placed around (not inside) apiaries for heavy infestations.

Conclusion

Kenyan and African beekeepers can manage honey bee pests effectively using Integrated Pest Management. Preventive strategies, strong colonies, hygienic practices, and physical barriers are often sufficient. Natural resilience of African bees reduces dependency on chemicals, supporting sustainable beekeeping.

References

Frazier, M., Muli, E., et al. (2010). Varroa destructor in East Africa: threat or opportunity? USDA ARS. https://www.ars.usda.gov/research/publications/publication/?seqNo115=242330

Muli, E., et al. (2014). Evaluation of the distribution and impacts of parasites and pathogens in East African honey bee populations. PLoS ONE, 9(4): e94459. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0094459

Gebremedhn, H., et al. (2019). Factors restraining Varroa destructor mite reproduction in Ethiopian honey bees. PLoS ONE, 14(10): e0223236. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0223236

Makori, D. M., et al. (2017). Predicting spatial distribution of key honeybee pests in Kenya using remotely sensed and bioclimatic variables. ISPRS Int. J. Geo-Inf., 6(3), 66. https://www.mdpi.com/2220-9964/6/3/66

Roth, M. (2022). Biology and management of the small hive beetle (Aethina tumida). J. Integ. Pest Manag., 13(1), 7. https://doi.org/10.1093/jipm/pmab025

Nganso, B. T., et al. (2025). Honey bee colony losses and causes during the active beekeeping season 2022/2023 in nine Sub-Saharan African countries. PLoS ONE, 20(7): e0322489. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0322489

Wambua, M. S., et al. (2019). Large hive beetles: an emerging serious honey bee pest in Kenya. Int. J. Trop. Insect Sci. https://doi.org/10.1080/0005772X.2019.1568355

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