.png)
"It's been a month since I found out 2 of my hives have been attacked by Wax Moth! Absolutely filled with rage, my poor bees have been invaded."
In the enchanting world of bees and honey, there exists a silent yet formidable foe that wreaks havoc on beehives - the notorious wax moths. These tiny pests may seem inconspicuous, but their insidious habits of devouring precious wax and destroying beehives make them a force to be reckoned with. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of wax moths, exploring their destructive tendencies and the impact they have on our beloved bee colonies.
What are Wax Moths?
Each year, the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella and lesser wax moth Achroia grisella cause more than $5 million in damage in the USA. They can quickly destroy comb by feeding on impurities in wax, pollen, and even bee larvae.
It mostly damages stored comb, but weak colonies can also be harmed. Wax moths are small, greyish-brown moths that lay eggs on bee combs.
The larvae hatch and feed on wax and other debris in the comb, damaging the comb. To protect colonies from wax moths, beekeepers should regularly inspect their hives and remove any combs that show signs of infestation. It is also imperative to keep the hive entrances clear of debris and clean and well-ventilated. Additionally, insecticide strips are an effective way to control these pests.
The Wax Moth's Munch
Wax moths, scientifically known as Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella, are notorious for their voracious appetite for beeswax. These cunning creatures infiltrate beehives under the cover of darkness, laying their eggs on beeswax comb and honeycombs. Once hatched, the larvae commence their feast, gnawing their way through the delicate structure of the hive, leaving devastation in their wake.
The Destruction Unleashed
As the larvae of the wax moth continue to feed on the beeswax in the combs they burrow through, creating tunnels and galleries under the comb. In addition to weakening the structural integrity of the hive, these tunnels also compromise its ability to house and protect the bee colony within it. Additionally, the larvae's excrement and silk webbing further contaminate the hive, resulting in an inhospitable environment for the bees due to their excrement and silk webbing.
A Race Against Time
Beekeepers face an ongoing battle to protect their hives from wax moth infestations. Regular hive inspections, vigilant monitoring, and the implementation of effective preventive measures are essential to thwarting these destructive invaders. Maintaining proper hive sanitation, removing old and unused comb, and providing bees with strong colonies and healthy environments are crucial steps in preventing wax moth infestations.
Natural Defense Mechanisms
Nature, in its wisdom, has equipped bees with ingenious defences against wax moths. Bee workers, which are also called house bees, detect wax moth larvae in the hive and swiftly remove them from it, as they are known as house bees. There are also techniques bees use to regulate the temperature in the hive, such as increasing the hive temperature during the brood-rearing season to prevent wax moth larvae from growing and surviving.
In the intricate realm of beekeeping, the presence of wax moths is an ever-present concern. These cunning creatures pose a threat to the delicate balance of our bee colonies, devouring beeswax and compromising the structural integrity of hives. However, armed with knowledge and proactive measures, beekeepers and enthusiasts can protect their hives and ensure the well-being of our beloved pollinators. Together, we can safeguard the buzzing harmony between bees and their precious abodes.
Comments