Effective Varroa Mite Treatment: A Guide to Using Oxalic Acid for Honeybees
Intro
https://www.mannlakeltd.com/blog/a-guide-to-varroa-mite-treatment/
Beekeeping is a rewarding and fulfilling hobby, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest threats to a beehive is the Varroa mite, a parasitic mite that can weaken and kill the bees. Fortunately, there are several ways to treat a beehive for Varroa mites, but we will focus on the use of oxalic acid through vaporization.
What is oxalic acid?
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Oxalic acid is a naturally occurring organic compound. It is found in many plants, including leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. Some common sources of oxalic acid in nature include:
Spinach and other leafy greens: Spinach is particularly high in oxalic acid, but other greens like chard, beet greens, and collard greens also contain significant amounts.
Rhubarb: The leaves of the rhubarb plant are high in oxalic acid, but the stalks contain much lower levels.
Beets: Beet roots and leaves contain oxalic acid, but the roots are generally considered safe to eat in moderation.
Cocoa powder: Cocoa powder, which is used to make chocolate, contains a moderate amount of oxalic acid.
Nuts and seeds: Almonds, cashews, peanuts, sesame seeds, and others contain oxalic acid.
Berries: Many types of berries, including blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries, contain oxalic acid.
While oxalic acid is found in many foods, it is only harmful when consumed in large amounts. It's important to note that the oxalic acid used for varroa mite treatment is typically a synthetic form, rather than the natural form found in foods.
When we refer to a "synthetic form" of oxalic acid, we mean a type of oxalic acid that has been produced in a laboratory through chemical synthesis. Synthetic oxalic acid is chemically identical to the oxalic acid found in nature, but it is made using different methods and starting materials.
The oxalic acid used for varroa mite treatment in beekeeping is typically a synthetic form because it needs to be purified and concentrated to achieve the required strength and consistency for effective treatment. Synthetic oxalic acid is produced through chemical reactions involving starting materials such as ethylene glycol or carbon monoxide. The resulting product is then purified and crystallized to produce a high-quality form of oxalic acid that can be used safely and effectively for varroa mite treatment, penetrating the cells of the beehive and killing the mites on contact. It's a relatively safe and effective way to treat for Varroa mites without harming the bees.
The Importance of Treating for Varroa Mites
https://www.morningagclips.com/how-varroa-mites-grow-and-spread/
Varroa mites are a major threat to honeybees, and if left untreated, they can cause serious damage to a beehive. They feed on the blood of the bees, weakening them and making them more susceptible to diseases and other pests. Over time, a Varroa mite infestation can lead to the death of an entire colony.
When to Treat with Oxalic Acid
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There are several factors to consider when deciding when to treat a beehive with oxalic acid. The timing of the treatment can affect its effectiveness, and it's important to choose a time when the bees are in a dormant state.
The best time to treat with oxalic acid is in the fall and winter when the colony is slowing down brood production or is broodless, meaning there are no developing bees in the hive, as mites prefer to multiply in drone brood. Treating during this time ensures greater efficacy of the acid. You want to ensure your colony goes into winter with low mite counts. Spring is another time preferred to treat because during the cold months of winter when the hive remains closed, any mites left behind will have multiplied.
How to Treat with Oxalic Acid Vapor
Treating a beehive with oxalic acid vapor is a relatively simple process, but it does require some special equipment. You'll need an oxalic acid vaporizer, which can be purchased from most beekeeping supply stores or online.
Each vaporizer will have its own set of instructions, so be sure to read the directions provided by the manufacturer, but the general steps to using a vaporizer are as follow:
Measure and prep the acid according to the instructions on the package.
Load the acid into the vaporizer.
Place the vaporizer in the beehive and seal the hive.
Turn on the vaporizer and allow it to run for the recommended amount of time.
After the treatment is complete, remove the vaporizer and allow the bees to ventilate the hive.
IMPORTANT: ALWAYS wear protective gear to avoid inhaling the fumes.
Conclusion
Treating a beehive with oxalic acid vapor is an effective way to control Varroa mite infestations and keep a beehive healthy. It's important to choose the right time to treat and to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the safety of the bees and the effectiveness of the treatment. By taking steps to control Varroa mites, beekeepers can help their hives thrive and produce the delicious honey that we all love.
**For more information on varroa mites, read our blog post
The History, Detection and Treatment of Varroa Mites**